218 East 74th Street, Manhattan, NY 10021

The five-story, 15-unit Old Law Tenement building at 218 East 74th Street, owned by Shlome Reifer, has experienced recurring heat and hot water issues throughout its recent history. Most notably, between October 2024 and May 2025, there were multiple complaints about inadequate heating and hot water systems, affecting both entire buildings and individual apartments, with some inspections being unable to gain access for verification. The building has also faced challenges with maintenance and health conditions, including recurring pigeon waste issues documented in 2025 (most recently in May), and various maintenance matters such as paint/plaster problems.

Inspections by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in 2025 regarding unsanitary conditions faced access issues, while an indoor air quality complaint related to construction dust was noted in January 2025. Historical records from 2018 show a period of significant infrastructure concerns, including multiple emergency heat and hot water complaints, and violations related to electrical safety in public areas. The building's elevator system required attention in 2019 when a violation was issued for failure to correct defects.

While there have been consistent reports of rodent conditions with some inspections failing, recent inspections in late 2024-2025 showed passing results. Notably, the building has maintained a clean bedbug record for at least seven consecutive years (2018-2025) with zero reported infestations or eradications. The property owner has obtained various plumbing permits between 2019-2022, suggesting ongoing maintenance and repair work is being performed, though the recurring nature of heating system complaints indicates persisting infrastructure challenges.