Countertop Defects Not Minor

Tenant complained of a reduction in services. The DRA ruled for tenant and reduced her rent based on a number of items, including the condition of tenant's kitchen countertop. Landlord appealed, claiming that any defect in the countertop was purely cosmetic. The DHCR ruled against landlord. The kitchen countertop was scratched and chipped, according to the inspection report. This wasn't just a case of one or two isolated scratches. Since the problem was more extensive, a rent reduction was warranted.

Bayshell Realty Co.: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. ID 110252-RO (2/2/96) [3-page document]