No MCI Rent Hike for Additional Security Cameras

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on the installation of a surveillance system. The DRA ruled against landlord, who appealed and lost. Landlord obtained a prior MCI increase for the existing surveillance system installed in 2006. The useful life of that system hadn't expired. Landlord argued that the newly installed cameras improved security and added to the prior system, which didn't cover all areas needed for tenants' safety. The fact that the new installation may have improved security didn't make the installation eligible if the work didn't otherwise qualify. And landlord didn't seek a useful-life waiver from the DHCR before commencing the work.

33-54 99th Street: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. XB130041RO (9/5/13) [1-pg. doc.]