740 10th Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10019

The 4-story, 7-unit tenement building at 740 10th Avenue in Hell's Kitchen, owned by Edgar Vargas, has experienced recurring heat and hot water issues over the past several years, with multiple emergency complaints filed between 2020 and 2025. Most recently, in February 2025, there were multiple complaints regarding heat/hot water problems and a heavy water leak, though inspectors were often unable to gain access for proper investigation. The building has also been cited for various safety violations, with open violations as of December 2024 including defective self-closing doors, issues with fire safety systems, and problems with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in Apartment 2S.

Between 2019 and 2021, significant violations were recorded regarding illegal occupancy and conversion issues in Apartment 2S, including unauthorized room modifications, inadequate fire safety systems, and occupancy concerns, though these violations were ultimately resolved and vacate orders rescinded. The building's maintenance history shows persistent issues with heat and hot water systems, with complaints spanning from 2020 through 2025. Recent inspections in 2024 identified several safety concerns, including defective doors affecting building security and egress.

The property has passed annual rodent inspections from 2016 to 2024, suggesting effective pest control measures. Between 2019 and 2021, there were multiple complaints and violations regarding unauthorized apartment modifications and occupancy issues, particularly concerning Apartment 2S, which resulted in various fines and requirements to restore the unit to its original condition. These issues appear to have been resolved, as indicated by the cancellation of related violations and vacate orders. The building has also undergone some permitting activity, with a work permit issued in December 2020 for interior modifications.