N.Y. Multiple Dwelling Law § 354

§ 354. Rules of evidence. In any action to establish a lien or in any\naction or proceeding for a fine, penalty or other punishment for a\nviolation of any of the provisions of this, article, proof of the\nill-repute or the ill-fame of the premises which are the subject-matter\nof the action or proceeding or of the inmates thereof, or of those\nresorting thereto, shall constitute presumptive evidence that such use\nwas with the permission of the owner, agent or lessee. The certificate\nof the department that the building was intended, arranged or designed\nto be occupied as a dwelling shall be presumptive evidence of the fact\nthat it is so occupied.\n