(1) On the date specified in a control summons the housing court shall, subject to this Part, inquire into the application for a control order.
(2) If the owner or occupier of the premises concerned or his representative fails to
appear in compliance with a control summons the housing court may upon proof—
(a) of service of the control summons; or
(b) that the owner or occupier concerned cannot be found by diligent search; proceed with the inquiry in his absence.