Q:
I have numerous defective conditions in my apartment. The landlord refuses to make repairs. I have called 311 on numerous occasions and an inspector has even come to my apartment. The city has issued violations to the landlord, but he still refuses to fix the apartment. What is my recourse? (NY)

A:
In such situations, the best alternative within the law is to file what is commonly referred to as a “HP” Action against the landlord. In an HP Action, a tenant sues the landlord for repairs of defective conditions which constitute violations. The lawsuit is commenced in Housing Court. The clerk of the court will give the tenant any necessary forms that may be required. At the court date, the judge will order that the repairs be made. If the landlord does not comply with the court’s order, the landlord may be held in contempt of court, face heavy civil penalties and be imprisoned. The following link may be used to find the location of the housing courts in New York: http://www.courts.state.ny.us

Для начала воспользуйся телефоном 311, посмотри как прореагирует хозяин, а потом следуй совету.
Самостоятельно вносить изменения в наружные стены ты не имеешь права, а заделка дыры, является таким изменением.

Это неважно, временное или постоянное. Если ты сможешь доказать, что все с кондиционерами в окнах - американцы, а он пытается воспользоваться твоим незнанием законов и недостаточностью языка.
А вообще обратись по ссылке.