Prohibits certain surcharges on self-installed dishwashers in housing accommodations subject to rent control

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Robert Jackson says this is needed

Housing expenses in New York City are a challenge for a significant number of people, and many residents rely on rent stabilization, which provides housing protection for millions of people. Despite the strong need for these tenant protections, many landlords are increasing the cost of housing by imposing non-rent fees on rent stabilized tenants for things that often will have de minimis or even positive effect on the landlord's expenses. This includes fees for tenant-installed dishwashers, though dishwashers often save water. The purported rationale for non-rent fees on appli- ances like dishwashers is to account for the increased wear on plumbing and electrical systems paid by landlords. However, these costs are already taken into account by the Rent Guidelines Board as it calculates rent increases published in the yearly Apartment/Loft Order. On a yearly basis, fees can add up to hundreds of dollars, which is not a de minimis cost for those living on a low income or fixed income. In addition, studies show that dishwashers often reduce water bills as opposed to manual hand washing. Dishwashers are designed to be more efficient and can save water significantly compared to manual hand wash- ing. Tenants that install a dishwasher in their home should not receive a rent increase for something that will often save money for the land- lord's bills. Reducing the never-ending monthly fees being charged as a result is an important step forward in preventing dramatic increases in the cost of living, and protecting housing for New Yorkers.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.