Norwalk Fair Rent Commission sets temporary fair rent of $985 for tenant in Revales v. Soundview LLC

The Norwalk Fair Rent Commission on Wednesday considered a complaint by tenant Diana Revales challenging a rent increase proposed by Soundview LLC for the two-bedroom unit at 53-55 Woodward Ave. After hearing testimony from Revales, landlord representatives and staff, the commission voted unanimously to set the fair rent for Revales' unit at $985 per month, effective Aug. 1, 2024, through July 31, 2025.

The decision follows a full evidentiary hearing in which the commission reviewed income and expense information, photos and inspection reports, the condition of the unit and common areas, and claims of retaliatory conduct. The commission said it relied on the parties' testimony, landlord exhibits and inspection photographs in reaching its finding.

Revales, who told the commission she has "lived there for now going on 15 years," testified about long-standing maintenance and sanitary concerns including intermittent hot water, a stopped toilet she said went unrepaired for two days, leaks that left visible damage and recurring garbage and snow-removal problems in common areas. She also said she is a tenant with a disability and requested accommodation and a phased increase to limit financial disruption.

Soundview's representative presented an…