228 East 26th Street, Manhattan, NY 10010

The five-story New Law Tenement building at 228 East 26th Street in Kips Bay, owned by Mark Scharfman, has a documented history of various maintenance issues and inspections since its construction in 1920. Most recently, in June 2025, there have been multiple concerning incidents including reports of ceiling issues (paint/plaster), electrical problems (wiring), and unsanitary conditions related to garbage/recycling storage and pests.

Of particular note is a June 2025 rat sighting that resulted in violations from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, following a pattern of rodent-related complaints that have persisted over multiple years. The building has experienced recurring issues with garbage/recycling storage, as evidenced by several HPD complaints and violations between 2022 and 2025. The property has also faced infrastructure challenges, including a May 2023 Boiler Department complaint regarding defective/inoperative equipment and an active Environmental Control Board violation related to improper clothes dryer venting and oil burner issues, with a penalty of $312 imposed.

While the building has maintained a record of zero bedbug infestations in its annual reports from 2021 to present, it has undergone multiple rodent inspections, with the most recent in July 2025 indicating rat activity. Historical data shows various maintenance issues have been addressed as they arise, including plumbing problems in 2022 that affected the building's toilet facilities and interior maintenance violations related to bathroom renovations in apartment 2B in 2021. The property has consistently undergone inspections and addressed violations, though some issues, particularly regarding sanitation and pest control, appear to be recurring challenges.