Landlord Charged Illegal Fee for Roommate

Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. The DRA ruled for tenant and imposed triple damages for willful rent overcharge. Landlord appealed, claiming that the $60 roommate fee charged tenant was valid. The DHCR ruled against landlord. The rent stabilization law and code don't permit landlord to impose a charge on tenant based on the presence of an additional occupant.

Pando: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. EA410031RO (8/1/96) [4-page document]