261 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10023

261 Amsterdam Avenue is a 12-story, 89-unit New Law tenement building constructed in 1906, currently owned by Michael Laub. The building has experienced several significant issues in recent years, most notably concerning its elevator systems and building facade maintenance. As of October 2024, there are active violations related to both the elevator door safety mechanism and exterior facade conditions, with specific concerns about cracked terra-cotta between the 8th and 12th floors on the south elevation. The building has a documented history of food safety incidents, including multiple reports of food poisoning and spoiled food between 2022 and 2025, though most were determined to be isolated incidents.

More recent health concerns include a drinking water-related illness investigation in December 2024 that found no violations, and rodent activity was recorded in mid-2024, with bait applications continuing into 2025. The building has undergone several inspection and compliance actions in recent years, with the Department of Buildings issuing multiple elevator-related violations between 2024-2025, some of which were dismissed upon re-inspection. A bedbug incident was reported in late 2024 affecting one unit, though this was addressed. The property has maintained regular apartment unit permits and inspections, though there have been occasional lapses in filing required inspections, particularly concerning energy efficiency displays in 2022-2023.

Plumbing issues were reported and inspected in 2024, though no violations were found. The building's management has generally addressed code violations and maintenance issues as they arise, as evidenced by the resolution of numerous complaints and the issuance of appropriate permits for required work. Recent inspections of the building's systems, including elevators and water supply, have shown varying degrees of compliance, with some ongoing issues requiring attention. The property's location in the Upper West Side maintains consistent demand, though its older infrastructure presents ongoing maintenance challenges typical of 1906 vintage buildings.