One-third or more of the tenants occupying a multiple residence dwelling or a tenant occupying a single residence dwelling or the commissioner of the department charged with enforcement of the housing maintenance code in the municipality where the dwelling is located may maintain a special proceeding as provided in this article, upon the grounds that there exists in such dwelling, or in any part thereof: 1. a lack of heat, running water, light, electricity, adequate sewage disposal facilities, or any other condition dangerous to life, health or safety, which has existed for five days, or an infestation by rodents, or any combination of such conditions; or 2. a course of conduct by the owner or the owner's agents of harassment, illegal eviction, continued deprivation of services or other acts dangerous to life, health or safety.
New York Legal Code