388 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10026

388 Manhattan Avenue is a 5-story, 10-unit Old Law Tenement building in Harlem, constructed in 1901 and currently owned by 388 Manhattan Ave Corp. The building has experienced several maintenance issues in recent years, with the most significant cluster of complaints occurring in January 2025, including electrical problems, water leaks, and ceiling issues, some of which resulted in violations that require correction by the property owner. The building's maintenance history reveals recurring issues with various systems, including heat/hot water problems, plumbing concerns (particularly involving sinks and basins), and electrical outlets. Notably, in July 2024, multiple violations were documented in Apartment 4B, including problems with hardwood floors, kitchen cabinets, and plumbing fixtures, along with an infestation of roaches and mice that was addressed by May 2024.

The building's safety systems have also faced challenges, as evidenced by a Department of Buildings complaint in March 2022 regarding blocked egress and a damaged lock on the vestibule door, which resulted in a $312 penalty. While the recent rodent inspections show improvement, with passing results in 2024 and 2025, there have been periods of rat activity noted in 2023-2024. The property has maintained a clean record regarding bedbug infestations, with no reported cases in recent years. Multiple violations related to plumbing, flooring, and general maintenance were documented throughout 2024-2025, including issues with paint/plaster surfaces, especially in bathrooms, and problems with various building systems that require ongoing attention.

The building's complaint history spans several years, with recurring issues suggesting ongoing maintenance challenges. These include problems with water systems, electrical infrastructure, and various building systems that require regular intervention from housing authorities. The property has undergone multiple inspections and received various citations for maintenance violations, indicating a pattern of requiring external oversight to address building system issues. The most recent violations as of 2025, particularly regarding water leaks and electrical systems, suggest that some building infrastructure remains in need of ongoing maintenance and oversight.