Landlord Can Replace Security Guard with Surveillance System

Landlord asked the DHCR for permission to modify building services by replacing a front door security guard with a surveillance camera system. The DRA ruled for landlord without ordering any rent reduction. The DRA further determined that landlord wouldn’t file an MCI rent increase application for the camera system installation.

Tenants appealed and lost. They claimed that the substituted service was an insufficient modification and that there had been improper monitoring of the surveillance cameras since they were installed. They also pointed out that, in a prior order, the DHCR had reduced their rents after landlord removed the security guard service. But that was because landlord reduced the service before getting DHCR permission to modify services. Building services, as modified and approved, had now been restored. The new camera system was an adequate substitution for the prior system and didn’t warrant imposition of a permanent rent reduction. The new system included 32 cameras that landlord maintained and monitored 24/7. 

Givens: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. EQ610039RT (12/9/16) [6-pg. doc.]