Landlord Can Replace Audio Intercom System with Video Intercom System

Landlord applied to the DHCR in 2021 for permission to modify building-wide services by replacing the old audio-only intercom system with a new one-way audio-video intercom system. Some tenants objected to the proposal based on the history of how landlord performed work at the building, but the DRA ruled for landlord, finding that the proposed service modification wasn't inconsistent with RSC Section 2522.4.

Tenants appealed and lost. The proposed video intercom system would be hard-wired and wouldn't require the use of tenants' landline or cellular telephones. The new system would provide tenants with the ability to see and hear prospective visitors at both building entrances. And the new intercoms would be located in each apartment at the current buzzer panel. Tenants' objections concerned an alleged history of "shoddy" work by landlord's contractors, rather than the proposed replacement system itself. The service modification must comply with all local rules and regulations, and tenants could file complaints with the appropriate municipal agencies such as DOB or HPD if warranted. 

Castaldo: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. LO410004RT (11/3/23)[4-pg. document]