Part-Time Attendants Replaced with Surveillance System and Package Lockers

Landlord asked the DHCR for permission to modify building-wide services by eliminating 120 hours of part-time lobby attendant service and installing 16 new security cameras. The DRA ruled for landlord. Tenants appealed and won, in part. Tenants claimed that the video cameras wouldn’t provide sufficient security. They also pointed out that the lobby attendants received packages, reported emergencies, and assisted sick or injured tenants. In addition, the DHCR previously denied landlord permission to replace lobby attendant service with a “virtual doorman” in 2008 or with a new intercom system in 2012.

The DHCR found that the lobby attendants worked only part time and only covered the main entrances to the building. The 24/7 video surveillance system would monitor common areas and other parts of the building that the lobby attendants didn’t cover. The DHCR’s prior orders didn’t involve a request to add a video surveillance system. However, the DRA’s order failed to address concerns regarding package receipt, which landlord had addressed in response to the DRA’s Request for Additional Information. As part of the approved service modification, landlord must install package lockers accessible to tenants as it had proposed. 

Brooklyn Housing & Family Services: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket Nos. CU210006RT, CU230043RT (12/30/16) [2-pg. doc.]