Tenant Didn't Give Proper Notice to Landlord Before Filing Complaint

Tenant complained of a reduction in services based on six items of decreased services. Landlord claimed that services were being provided and that tenant's complaint was invalid because it was filed more than 60 days after a violation notice was issued to landlord from the Village of Freeport. Landlord also argued that painting wasn't a required service for this building. The DRA ruled for tenant after an inspection, and landlord appealed. The DHCR ruled for landlord and revoked the rent reduction order. Tenant never sent landlord a complaint letter before filing his complaint. Tenant Protection Regulations require tenant to send landlord a letter describing conditions between 10 and 60 days before filing complaint. The violation notice wasn't a valid substitute under the regulations.

Datz: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. TH710015RO (12/1/05) [3-pg. doc.].