1. Except as herein otherwise provided, the provisions of this chapter shall be enforced by the department charged with the enforcement of laws, ordinances and regulations in relation to multiple dwellings. 1-a. For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, the department shall have the power to subpeona witnesses, administer oaths and take testimony, compel the production of books, papers, records and documents and to hold public or private hearings, subject to the right of any person who shall appear hereunder to be represented by counsel of his own choosing, at any such hearing. The department may designate one or more of its members, officers or employees to exercise any one or more of such powers. 2. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to abrogate or impair the powers of any department or of the courts to enforce the provisions of any local law, ordinance, rule, regulation or charter not inconsistent with this chapter, or to prevent violations or punish violators thereof.
New York Legal Code