Landlord Can Charge $20 Late Fee

Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. Among other things, tenant claimed that landlord had charged him a $20 late fee during months when he paid his rent late. The DRA ruled for tenant, and landlord appealed. Tenant's initial lease contained a clause permitting landlord to charge a $20 late fee for late payment of rent. The DHCR ruled for landlord. It's DHCR policy that a late fee may be charged if tenant's initial lease specifically provided for it.

Mott: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. GG710067RO (7/1/98) [4-page document]