DHCR Incorrectly Notified Landlord That Building Wasn't Rent Stabilized

Rent-stabilized SRO tenant complained of rent overcharge. The DRA ruled for tenant and ordered landlord to refund $3,400 plus triple damages. Landlord appealed and won in part. The building was constructed before 1969 and contained seven units. So it was subject to rent stabilization. But the DHCR had rejected landlord's rent registrations in the past and mistakenly notified him that the building wasn't subject to rent stabilization. So the overcharge wasn't willful, and triple damages were revoked.

Forde: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. BX210029RO (1/23/15) [3-pg. doc.]