N.Y. Multiple Residence Law § 302-a

§ 302-a. Unlawful occupation. 1. If any dwelling or structure be\noccupied in whole or in part for human habitation in violation of\nsection three hundred two of this article, no rent shall be recovered by\nthe owner of such premises for said period, and no action for possession\nof said premises for nonpayment of such rent shall be maintained\ntherefor.\n 2. The department charged with the enforcement of this chapter may\ncause to be vacated any dwelling or any part thereof which contains a\nnuisance as defined in section three hundred five of this article, or is\noccupied by more families or persons than permitted in this chapter, or\nis erected, altered or occupied contrary to law. Any such dwelling shall\nnot again be occupied until it or its occupancy, as the case may be, has\nbeen made to conform to law.\n