Landlord Can Replace Key Locks with Electronic Keyless Access System

Landlord asked the DRA for permission to replace key locks on the building's front door and the door to the storage area with an electronic keyless access system. Tenants would use a key card or tag instead of a key to open these doors. The DRA ruled for landlord on the condition that a battery backup be provided in case power was lost, that a siren alarm be activated if the door was left open, that all tenants would have access to the storage room, that the super would be responsible in emergencies and keep spare key cards, and that tenants and household members would receive key cards at landlord's expense. Tenants appealed. They claimed that landlord couldn't comply with the conditions, that key cards weren't as durable as keys, and that key cards infringed on their privacy because they were coded and allowed landlord to see when tenants entered the building. The DHCR ruled against tenants. Landlord's keyless access system was an adequate substitute service for the prior keyed front door and storage room.

Hanlon: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. OF430017RT (7/7/03) [3-pg. doc.]