Water Pressure System Doesn't Qualify as MCI

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on the installation of a water pressure system. The DRA ruled against landlord, finding that this was a repair and maintenance item, not a major capital improvement. Landlord appealed and lost. For plumbing work to qualify as an MCI, the work must include new risers, returns, and branches to the fixtures in every apartment and/or new overhead mains with all necessary valves. The only repiping work landlord did here was in connection with a water pressurization apparatus in the basement. Therefore, the work didn't qualify as an MCI.

437 Prospect Avenue: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. VI230044RO (3/13/08) [2-pg. doc.]