Gas Meters Installed by National Grid Weren't Claimed as MCI Costs

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on installation of a boiler/heater. The DRA ruled for landlord but disallowed permit fees of $1,688 since such fees didn't qualify for an MCI rent increase. Tenant appealed and lost. He claimed that new gas meters, provided for in landlord's work contract, weren't supplied or installed. Landlord responded that it paid $35,000 for new gas lines for each apartment, new gas meter bars for each apartment, and re-piping. National Grid provided the gas meters, and these weren't charged as MCI installation costs. The DHCR agreed, and noted that landlord properly substantiated its MCI application with submission of required supporting documentation. The costs for the new boiler/heater were actual, reasonable, and verifiable. 

Baugham: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. KN210005RT (2/23/24)[4-pg. document]