856 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10025

The 5-story, 9-unit Old Law Tenement building at 856 Amsterdam Avenue in the Upper West Side, owned by Burton Kassell and built in 1920, has experienced persistent maintenance issues over the past 18 months, most notably regarding heat and hot water systems. From April 2025 to late 2024, there were multiple complaints about heating problems affecting both individual apartments and the entire building, with some inspections being unable to gain access to verify conditions.

The building is currently facing rodent control challenges, with repeated inspections in early 2025 showing rat activity and multiple bait applications being necessary, as evidenced by eight consecutive bait reports between January and May 2025, and the most recent compliance inspection in May 2025 also noting rat activity. The property has been cited for various violations that impact resident comfort and safety, including an active Environmental Control Board violation from May 2023 regarding improper installation of window air conditioning units throughout the building.

There have also been recurring issues with access for inspections and maintenance, as shown by multiple instances where HPD could not gain apartment access to verify reported conditions. The building's maintenance history shows some positive aspects, including consistent bedbug reporting indicating no infestations confirmed since 2019, and recent efforts to address pest control through baiting. However, the ongoing nature of heating system complaints and rodent issues suggests significant challenges with building maintenance and resident comfort.