Fire Exit Was Blocked, Fire Escape Was Rusted

Tenant complained of a reduction in services. The DRA ruled for tenant and reduced his rent based on findings that landlord wasn't maintaining the fire exit and fire escape. Landlord appealed, claiming that it didn't receive notice of tenant's claim that the basement fire exit was obstructed. Landlord also claimed that the conditions were minor. The DHCR ruled against landlord. Landlord received notice of tenant's complaint. The DHCR didn't have to give landlord notice of its inspection. Inspections showed that the fire exit opposite the laundry room was blocked with two pails. The fire escape was rusted from the bottom to the top of the building. These conditions weren't minor, because they affected the health, security, and safety of tenants.

75th Street Properties: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. VE430024RO (4/11/08) [3-pg. doc.]