MCI Meaning - New York City Renters

When living in a rent regulated apartment building, there are very few reasons your landlord is allowed to legally raise your rent for. One of these reasons can be to pay for improvements to the building. This can be one of two types of improvements: individual apartment improvements (IAI) or major capital improvements (MCI).

What is an Individual Apartment Improvement (IAI)?

Individual apartment improvements are changes that you should witness happening in your own apartment. These improvements can include things such as the installation of new appliances, painting, furnishing, or increased service of heat and water. 

While these improvements will likely lead to an increase in your rent, your landlord is not allowed to make any of the improvements without your consent. Landlords are legally obligated to get written consent from their tenants before raising the rent.

In rent controlled apartments specifically, on top of getting written consent, they must also provide a written notice of the rent increase to the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR).

What is a Major Capital Improvement (MCI)?

Major capital improvements, on the other hand, are when landlords are looking to make improvements throughout the entire building. These types of improvements can include replacing the boiler, repairing the roof, or replacing the plumbing system throughout the building. In this case, your landlord does not need your consent to raise your rent. However, they are legally required to file the Owner’s Application for Rent Increase Based on MCIs. 

If your landlord is making these types of improvements, however you are aware that they have not followed the proper process, the improvements do not benefit the entire building, or that they have raised the rent prices more than what they should have, you are able to contest their MCI application.

Landlord Raised Rents Illegally? Contact Outerbridge Law

Unfortunately, it is possible that you will experience a landlord who attempts to raise your rent more than the amount it costs to make the repairs. In these situations, rather than trying to take matters into your own hands, your best bet is to consult with a lawyer experienced in all manners of landlord-tenant law.

Outerbridge Law, P.C. has represented both tenants and landlords in a number of cases, and can anticipate the defenses that will be prepared. If you think your rights have been violated, contact Outerbridge Law today to schedule an initial case evaluation.