103 East 97th Street, Manhattan, NY 10029

The five-story, 10-unit building at 103 East 97th Street in East Harlem, constructed in 1910, has experienced several persistent maintenance issues and safety concerns over the past few years. The building has multiple open violations, most notably three consecutive annual violations (2022-2024) regarding the failure to file mandatory bedbug reports as required under the Housing Maintenance Code.

Notable resident-specific maintenance issues include a significant mold problem in bathroom ceiling (approximately 12 square feet) in Apartment 1A documented in 2022, and a now-resolved fire escape lock violation from the same apartment that presented safety concerns. Common area issues have included problems with self-closing doors in the public hall on the fifth story and a defective bulkhead. The property has also faced regulatory scrutiny regarding its boiler maintenance, with a violation issued in 2019 for failing to file the 2017 annual boiler inspection report, though this was eventually dismissed in 2021.

Most concerning are the ongoing rodent control issues, with recent inspections in 2024-2025 showing consistent rat activity and the application of bait multiple times throughout the year. Compliance inspections in February and April 2025 specifically noted rat activity, indicating a persistent pest control challenge. Through 2025, the building has undergone regular bait application treatments, though these remedial measures suggest ongoing challenges with rodent infestation that may impact resident comfort and health.