Landlord Gets 1/40th Rent Hike for New Refrigerator

Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. The DRA ruled for tenant and disallowed a rent increase landlord had collected for installation of a new refrigerator in tenant's apartment. Landlord appealed. Tenant had signed a written consent to installation of the new appliance and payment of a 1/40th rent increase. Landlord submitted a copy of proof of purchase of a Hotpoint refrigerator. The DHCR inspection showed that the apartment contained a General Electric refrigerator. But both Hotpoint and G.E. appliances are manufactured by General Electric. The DHCR ruled for landlord. Tenant didn't dispute landlord's explanation of its documents. Landlord was entitled to a rent increase for the new appliance.

Quintero: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. VF410035RO (10/16/07) [3-pg. doc.]