Landlord Notified DRA of Repairs Too Late

Tenant complained of a reduction in services based on a number of conditions in the bathroom and kitchen of his apartment. The DRA ruled for tenant and reduced his rent. Landlord appealed, claiming that it made all the needed repairs to tenant's apartment on July 6 and 7, 2007, before the DRA issued its ruling. The DHCR ruled against landlord. On July 6, 2007, the DHCR's inspector found that services weren't being maintained. The bathroom wall, bedroom ceiling, and living room ceiling were repaired in an unworkmanlike manner, the back bedroom ceiling light fixture wasn't working, and the kitchen closet needed painting. Although landlord may have made repairs after the inspection, he didn't notify the DRA. The DRA properly reduced tenant's rent based on the inspection.

Awan: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. VI210058RO (12/27/07) [3-pg. doc.]