Tenant Claims Cost of Improvements Inflated

Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. Landlord submitted proof of individual apartment improvements done in tenant's apartment before he moved in. The cost of the improvements totaled $34,000. The DRA ruled against tenant, finding no overcharge. Tenant asked for reconsideration, claiming that the work should have cost only $8,800. The DRA ruled for tenant and reopened the case. The DRA then sent an inspector to the apartment. The inspector found no proof of fraud by landlord. The DRA again ruled against tenant. Tenant appealed and lost. Landlord provided sufficient proof supporting its claimed costs. Landlord wasn't required to get the lowest cost for the improvements.

Norman: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. MJ410097RT (2/28/01) [7-pg. doc.]