Judge Enedina Pilar Sanchez

Tenant Oteng sued in this HP action alleging conditions in the subject apartment, claiming violations of the Housing Maintenance Code. An inspection of the premises by HPD revealed conditions including concealed water leak in the ceiling in the bathroom. The parties entered into a stipulation with landlord agreeing to repair described conditions. Oteng filed several orders to show insisting repairs were not performed, including the concealed leak, and a door lock that prevented tenant from exiting or entering the premises without assistance. A hearing was held and Oteng testified the leak from above rendered use of the bathroom extremely uncomfortable. Landlord's assistant superintendent testified the leak should be abated with a wax gasket seal placed on the upstairs toilet, but never stated the concealed water leak was abated. The court found landlord failed to comply with prior orders to render repairs, stating landlord's delayed action showed a disregard for compliance with the Code and prior court orders. It stated the Code required proper maintenance and keeping plumbing and drainage in good repair, and that a defective entrance door-lock was inherently dangerous that must be abated. As such, the court awarded abatement of rent of $950 through April 5, 2017—the hearing date.

Judge Enedina Pilar Sanchez