MCI Rent Hike Granted for Waste Compactor

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on the installation of a waste compactor. The DRA ruled for landlord. Tenants appealed, claiming that the old compactor wasn't entirely replaced, only the electric motor. Tenants argued that this was routine maintenance. They also questioned the cost of the MCI. The DHCR ruled against tenants. Landlord submitted a contract, a contractor's statement, and canceled checks supporting the MCI application. DHCR inspection also showed that a new compactor was installed. And since there was no proof of fraud or other impropriety, the DHCR wouldn't review whether the cost of the MCI was reasonable. Landlord was entitled to rent hikes based on the actual cost of the improvement.

34-64 Hillside Avenue: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. YG430003RT (4/22/11) [3-pg. doc.]