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 let the landlord or workers in.
If the landlord asks you to provide access to your apartment for repairs and then does not show up, keep a record of these dates and any attempts you may make to reschedule.
If the landlord does not finish the repairs by the deadline, you will need to go back to court to reopen the case. You can file an order to show cause for contempt of court for the landlord’s failure to comply. This means the landlord can be fined or even possibly jailed. Any fines the landlord must pay will go to the city. Contempt filings can be complicated for a tenant without a lawyer. Be prepared for a tough fight. Landlords are rarely put in jail. Several factors may help strengthen your case:
- Keep good records
- Stay in close contact with the HPD lawyer and HPD inspectors
- Organize other tenants in the building to take action as a group.