I need repairs in my apartment.

What is an HP action?

An HP action is a case that you file against your landlord when the landlord will not make repairs or provide services. You are asking the court to order the landlord to...

What should I do before I file an HP action?

Write a letter to the landlord List the repairs and services you need Send by certified mail Call 311 to make a complaint to HPD

How do I file an HP action?

Get the forms and instructions to start an HP action from the clerk in Housing Court. You need to know your landlord’s name and address. You can not use a PO Box,...

Do I have to give the HP papers to the landlord?

Yes, you have to serve the papers on the landlord and also on HPD. The judge or the clerk will explain to you how to serve the papers. Follow the instructions...

What if I don’t know the landlord’s name and address?

You can find out by calling 311 and asking for HPD or going to HPD Online. The Department of Finance’s ACRIS website also has property records.

Do I have to pay to file an HP action?

Everyone can fill out the fee waiver form to ask the judge not to make you pay the fee. The fee is $45. It needs to paid with cash, money order,...

How do I prepare for my HP action court date?

The Inspection — The court will send an inspector to your apartment. Make sure you are in your apartment and are ready for the inspector on the day and time that you...

What will happen on my HP action court date?

Arrive early so that you have time to go through the metal detectors and get to your court room. If you are late or if you miss your court date, the judge...

If your landlord agrees to make the repairs.

The landlord may agree to make repairs. You may agree to sign a preprinted consent order. Ask for this if violations appeared on the inspection report. If the landlord refuses to sign...

If your landlord refuses to make the repairs or does not show up in court.

The judge can still order the repairs be made or services restored. If the landlord is in court, but refuses to sign a consent order or a stipulation, you can ask...

What is the role of the HPD attorney?

The HPD lawyer represents the city. He or she wants to enforce apartment and building standards. Tell the HPD lawyer about the conditions in your apartment or building and show your evidence....

What if the landlord still doesn’t fix my apartment?

If the landlord begins to make repairs, keep track of when they are completed and what work hasn’t been done. Be sure someone is in your apartment on the access dates to...

What is a group HP action?

Several tenants in a building filing one case against the landlord together. The case will address each individual apartment as well as the public areas in the building. There are advantages...

My landlord has been harassing me.

There is a different type of HP action that specifically addresses harassment. The HP action for harassment can also address repair issues. HP actions for harassment only cover certain types of harassment....