103 1st Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10003

The five-story New Law tenement at 103 1st Avenue, owned by Stephen Chen, has experienced several notable issues since 2019, particularly in the realm of health and safety. Most recently, in June 2023, there was a documented sewage odor affecting indoor air quality, which prompted the Department of Health to issue an advisory to the management.

The building has had recurring food establishment-related complaints between 2019 and 2024, including reports of rodents, insects, garbage, and issues with toilet facilities and water, though most were ultimately administratively closed after being addressed. An active ECB violation from 2022 remains regarding an unauthorized large metal and steel awning in the rear yard, for which a $1,250 penalty was imposed. Despite these challenges, recent developments show some improvements in building conditions.

There have been no reports of bedbug infestations since 2022, and the building has consistently passed rodent inspections conducted every six months from 2020 through 2025, with the most recent inspection in May 2025 showing compliance. Other notable complaints include a failure to maintain citation in October 2022 and multiple complaints in December 2022 regarding unpermitted work, though inspections did not warrant any violations at that time. While the building has experienced various maintenance and safety issues over the years, the most recent records indicate regular pest control success and reduced health code violations, though the active ECB violation regarding the unauthorized awning structure remains unresolved.