Full Breakdown
NYC Housing Agency Found in Contempt for Violating Housing Code
4/10/2026, 11:53:41 PM
Court Ruling Against the Department of Housing Preservation and Development
A New York City housing court has ruled that the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) violated multiple judicial orders by failing to repair a city-owned apartment in Brooklyn, which was leased to tenant Julian Butler. Judge Enedina Pilar Sanchez found HPD in contempt of court, citing a “disregard” for the law and highlighting the apartment's hazardous conditions, including lack of electricity, broken windows, and an unusable bathroom. This ruling marks a significant moment, as it is reportedly the first time HPD has faced contempt charges for housing violations.
Tenant's Struggle for Safe Housing
Julian Butler, a 43-year-old single father, moved into the HPD-owned unit at 143 Noll St. after losing his previous home to a fire in late 2024. He was compelled to sign the lease without inspecting the apartment, under the threat of losing his HPD-subsidized housing at $700 per month. Upon moving in, Butler discovered severe issues, including missing bathroom fixtures, broken windows, and dangerously uneven flooring. Despite his efforts to resolve these problems, including acting as his own lawyer in housing court, HPD failed to address the ongoing repairs.
HPD's Response and Ongoing Issues
In response to the court's ruling, HPD spokesperson Kim Moscaritolo stated that the agency had made prior renovations to the apartment and suggested that any electricity issues were Butler's responsibility to resolve with ConEd. However, the court found that multiple issues remained unresolved, leading to the judge's order for HPD to complete repairs by April 17, 2026, and to provide Butler with a rent credit dating back to January 2025. The ruling also stipulated that Butler should not be required to pay rent until the repairs were completed.
Criticism of HPD's Practices
Legal experts have expressed concern over HPD's handling of the situation. Attorney David Schwartz remarked that a private landlord would face significant fines for similar violations, emphasizing the importance of holding government agencies accountable. The ruling has been described as a “real slap in the face” to the agency, which is tasked with enforcing housing codes but has been found to be in violation of them.
Impact on Tenant's Life
Butler's experience has taken a toll on his financial and emotional well-being. He has been forced to deplete his savings to maintain housing for himself and his son while commuting over two hours daily to work and school. “I’m at my boiling point,” Butler stated, highlighting the stress and financial strain caused by the agency's inaction.
What's Next for Butler and HPD
As the deadline for repairs approaches, the outcome of this case may set a precedent for how housing agencies are held accountable for their obligations. The court's ruling not only impacts Butler's living situation but also raises broader questions about the enforcement of housing codes in New York City.
