How is the rent determined and what is a MAR?
The legal rent for a controlled unit is the Maximum Allowable Rent (MAR) plus certain surcharges. For tenants who moved in before October 1995, the MAR is based on the rent in effect (and all amenities included with the rent) on April 10, 1978, one year before rents were regulated. The current MAR equals the base rent from 1978 plus all increases approved by the Board since that time. The current rent may also include monthly surcharges, such as the Rent Control registration fee. As of January 1, 1999, property owners may rent most units to new tenants for market rates. In negotiating the initial rent for an apartment, owners may offer whatever amenities they negotiate, without regard to the amenities that previously came with the apartment. The amenities provided when the apartment is rented will be considered the unit’s minimum amenities for the duration of the tenancy. Rent levels and parking information for all tenancies after January 1, 1999 must be registered with the Rent Contro
