(c) Except for complaints pertaining to heat and hot water or other conditions requiring emergency repairs, before filing an application for a reduction of the legal regulated rent pursuant to subdivision (a) of this section, a tenant should notify the owner or the owner's agent in writing of all the service problems listed in such application. A copy of the written notice to the owner or agent with proof of mailing or delivery should be attached to the application. Applications should be filed with the DHCR no earlier than 10 days after such notice is given to the owner or agent. Failure to provide such prior written notice will not be grounds for dismissal of the application. Applications based upon a lack of adequate heat or hot water must be accompanied by a report from the appropriate city agency finding such lack of adequate heat or hot water.
(d)
(1) In the event notice of any inspection is given by the DHCR in a proceeding commenced pursuant to this section, the inspection shall be conducted on notice to both the owner and tenant.