(a)
(1) A tenant may apply to the DHCR for a reduction of the legal regulated rent to the level in effect prior to the most recent guidelines adjustment, subject to the limitations of subdivisions (c)-(h) of this section, and the DHCR shall so reduce the rent for the period for which it is found that the owner has failed to maintain required services. The order reducing the rent shall further bar the owner from applying for or collecting any further increases in rent including such increases pursuant to section 2522.8 of this Title until such services are restored or no longer required pursuant to an order of the DHCR. If the DHCR further finds that the owner has knowingly filed a false certification, it may, in addition to abating the rent, assess the owner with the reasonable costs of the proceeding, including reasonable attorney's fees, and impose a penalty not in excess of $250 for each false certification.