Landlord Can Replace Bi-Fold Closet Doors with Sliding Doors

Landlord asked the DRA for permission to replace existing bi-fold closet doors in various apartments with sliding closet doors. Landlord claimed that the existing doors broke frequently and were difficult to maintain. The DRA ruled for landlord, finding that this was an adequate substitute service. Tenants appealed, claiming the new doors wouldn't be an adequate substitute. They claimed the new doors would limit access to one half of the closet at a time and would be shorter than the old doors, thereby limiting access to upper closet shelves. The DHCR ruled against tenants. Landlord showed that the new doors wouldn't reduce interior closet space. Any inconvenience to tenants due to the different type of door was a minor condition and didn't constitute a decrease in services.

333 E. 14th St.: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. Nos. LL410035RT et al. (8/14/98) [2-page document]