Landlord Seeks Reduction in Building Services

Landlord asked the DHCR for permission to reduce the existing hours of the building concierge, porter, and super and to modify mail delivery and garbage collection services. The DRA ruled for landlord, ordered some service substitutions, and didn't reduce tenants' rents. Tenants appealed, claiming the modifications would improperly reduce required services. The DHCR reopened the case for further consideration. Landlord sought to reduce the 24/7 concierge service to 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. five days per week, and to reduce three porter shifts providing seven-day coverage to one shift from Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Landlord also wanted to change the super's hours from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. As a result there would be periods of time when there was no staff on site, and it was unclear whether the proposed virtual security system was a sufficient substitute. Landlord also wanted to change trash collection service in the building so that tenants brought their trash to the basement instead of the stairwells on their floors. This could be a reduction in services that warranted a rent reduction. Landlord also sought to install mailboxes to replace pickup at the concierge desk. Landlord claimed that the concierge would continue to accept packages for tenants but didn't explain how this would happen with the proposed reduction in concierge hours. The DRA must consider questions raised by tenants before ruling on landlord's request.

134 West 58th Street: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. ZI410036RT (9/4/12) [3-pg. doc.]