Complete Carpet Replacement Qualifies as MCI

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on a number of improvements. The DRA ruled for landlord in part, granting MCI rent hikes for a new roof, boiler/burner, water tank, and elevator upgrade. But the DRA denied any increase for hallway and flooring work. Landlord appealed, pointing out that the entire public hallway of each floor was carpeted, including stairwells and lobby halls. In addition, landlord painted all ceilings and doors, hung wallpaper, and installed crown molding. The DHCR ruled for landlord in part. The complete replacement of all hallway carpeting performed by landlord qualified as an MCI. But the hallway renovation work didn't qualify. Landlord claimed that it was done in connection with the elevator upgrade. But this work wasn't directly related to the elevator work, and was done more than a year after the elevator upgrade was completed.

784 Columbus Avenue: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. UC410060RO (1/31/08) [3-pg. doc.]