Roof Alarm Lock System Defective

Tenants complained of a reduction in services based on a defective roof alarm lock system. The DRA ruled for tenants and reduced their rents. Landlord appealed, claiming that the roof alarm lock wasn't a required service. The DHCR ruled against landlord. Landlord had previously locked the roof door. But since this violated the NYC Housing Maintenance Code, landlord removed the lock and installed an alarm lock system consisting of a panic bar and motion detector-alarm system. The installation of the alarm system rendered it a required service under rent stabilization. An inspection showed that the alarm lock push handle was missing and that the door wasn't locked. This constituted a reduction in required services.

Zenith Assocs.: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. KA630016RP (2/16/96) [2-page document]