Replacement Air Conditioner Keeps Apartment Cool

Landlord asked the DRA for permission to modify services by replacing a 15,000 BTU air conditioner in tenant's apartment with a 10,000 BTU unit. Landlord claimed that the prior air conditioner had been removed when exterior renovation work was done. Tenant had then complained of a reduction in services and the DRA had reduced his rent. The DRA ruled for landlord, and tenant appealed. Tenant claimed that the smaller air conditioner wasn't an adequate substitute for the prior air conditioner. The DHCR ruled against tenant. An inspection showed that the apartment was adequately cooled with the 10,000 BTU unit.

Katz: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. MB410067RT (10/1/98) [2-pg. doc.]