Fire Escape Defects Weren't Minor

Tenants complained of a reduction in services. The DRA ruled for tenants based on landlord's failure to maintain the fire escape and courtyard janitorial services. Landlord appealed, claiming that the conditions were minor and didn't warrant a rent reduction. The DHCR ruled against landlord. An inspection showed that all five fire escapes at the building had peeling paint with rust. The yard was described as dirty with debris, and the rear alleyway was blocked with garbage and debris. These weren't minor conditions.

50 Rosen Realty Corp.: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. TB210036RO (5/6/05) [3-pg. doc.]