New Security System Doesn't Qualify as MCI

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on the installation of a side entry door, security cameras, and monitors. The DRA ruled for landlord. Tenants appealed, claiming no increase should have been granted for the security system. The DHCR ruled for tenants and revoked this portion of the rent increase. Under long-standing DHCR policy, a security system must monitor all entrances to a building on a 24-hour basis to qualify as an MCI. Alternatively, the security system must have visual capacity in each apartment and be connected to a functioning intercom system. In response to the DRA's request for additional information, landlord stated only that the security system monitored the building 24 hours a day and was supervised by the building super. Landlord provided no other information.

227 Haven Avenue: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. RL430041RT (8/20/08) [2-pg. doc.]