Broken Electric Outlet Not Minor Condition

Rent-stabilized tenant complained of a reduction in services. The DRA ruled for tenant and reduced his rent based on a finding that an electrical outlet in tenant's bedroom wasn't working. Landlord appealed and lost. Landlord claimed that this condition was de minimis, or minor, pointing out that at least four of the six outlets on one wall were working at the time of the DHCR's inspection. But, even if fixed soon thereafter, the nonoperational electric outlet wasn't a minor condition. The rent reduction was upheld.

B&B Manhattan, LLC: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. BM410017RO (1/24/14) [3-pg. doc.]