118 East 7th Street, Manhattan, NY 10009

This five-story Old Law Tenement building at 118 East 7th Street, owned by Nia Shields, has experienced recurring issues with heat and hot water since early 2023, with five emergency complaints filed regarding inadequate heating systems, including the most recent complaint in February 2025 about building-wide heating problems. The property has also faced multiple maintenance challenges, including mold problems documented in August 2023, heavy water flow issues, window frame concerns, and various plumbing problems, all of which have been addressed through inspections by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

In early 2024, the building faced significant legal challenges regarding its occupancy status, with multiple complaints about illegal hotel rooms resulting in an Environmental Control Board (ECB) violation from February 2024, specifically concerning unauthorized uses of Apartment #1W with penalties totaling $6,250 for failing to maintain code compliance with required safety systems. The building's system maintenance and safety features have also been a concern, with violations noted for inadequate heat supply, defective doors, and missing safety features like the required fire alarm system. The building's maintenance history shows both progress and ongoing challenges, with numerous HPD violations being addressed through inspections and repairs.

Recent rodent inspections in 2025 and 2024 show generally acceptable conditions, though there was one instance of rat activity noted in February 2024. The property has maintained a consistent record of managing bedbug issues, with no reported infestations in the past several years, and regular rodent inspections have generally resulted in passing grades. The building's system for handling tenant complaints shows a pattern of responding to urgent maintenance needs, particularly regarding heating issues, though access difficulties for inspectors have sometimes complicated matters.