2697 Fredrick Douglass Bl, Manhattan, NY 10030

The 8-unit, 5-story building at 2697 Frederick Douglass Boulevard in Harlem, owned by Joseph Zitolo, has experienced several notable maintenance and safety issues since 2024. Most recently, in March 2025, there was a rodent-related complaint involving a food establishment that was investigated by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The building has had multiple incidents of mold reported between August and September 2024, along with problems related to the intercom/buzzer system, plumbing (water supply), various appliances, and doors/windows.

While these complaints were investigated by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and no violations were found, they indicate ongoing maintenance challenges. The building currently has two open violations as of October 2024, though most previous violations have been resolved. These include requirements to repair paint and fire-retardant materials on the north wall of the public hall stairs on the 3rd story.

Historical records show concerning safety issues were addressed in 2021 regarding missing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in Apartment 4A, which were certified as resolved. Additionally, while the building has had occasional rodent activity (with an initial finding of rat activity in September 2024), recent inspections in March 2025 and January 2025 have shown compliance with rodent control requirements. Notably, the building has maintained a zero infestation record for bedbugs over the past several years, with all annual reports showing no affected units.