Tenant Made Access Conditional on Unrelated Demands

Rent-controlled tenant complained of reduced services. An inspection showed that a number of conditions existed in tenant's apartment. The DRA reduced tenant's monthly rent by $33. Landlord appealed, arguing that tenant had refused access to make repairs. Tenant's own statements to the DRA showed that tenant wouldn't allow landlord to work in the apartment unless unrelated disputes were also resolved. The DHCR, therefore, revoked that part of the rent reduction based on conditions such as painting and plastering, which landlord tried to correct.

Trustees of Columbia University: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. Nos. FA 5210182-RO, EL 520232-RT-520234 (7/29/93) [7-page document]