A housing service is any service related to the use or occupancy of a rental unit that the landlord provided (or promised) at the beginning of the tenancy. A housing service may also be something that was reasonably expected by the tenant under the circumstances, such as heat or water. If the housing service was first provided after the tenant moved in, the Rent Board will need to consider whether or not any additional rent was paid by the tenant at the time the service was first provided.
Housing Services may include, but are not limited to:
- Repairs, replacement, or maintenance
- Painting
- Light
- Heat or water
- Elevator service
- Laundry facilities and privileges
- Janitor service
- Quiet Enjoyment
- Trash removal
- Furnishings
- Parking
- Other rights given to the tenant by agreement (having roommates, subletting)
If the landlord removes (or fails to provide) a housing service without reducing the tenant's rent, a tenant may petition the Rent Board for a reduction in rent.
Última actualización October 13, 2022