409 Edgecombe Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10032

The 14-story, 123-unit building at 409 Edgecombe Avenue in Harlem, owned by Lois Gibbs, has experienced several significant issues in recent years, with the most pressing concerns being persistent heat and water problems, building maintenance issues, and recent fire damage. Between 2023-2025, there have been multiple emergency complaints about heat and hot water throughout the building, with inspections often unable to gain access to verify the conditions. The building has also faced repeated issues with unsanitary conditions, including mold (most recently reported in June 2025) and pest infestations, particularly in apartment 1H, which received multiple violation notices in 2023 for roaches and various maintenance issues.

Notably, a significant fire incident occurred in January 2024, causing damage to exterior walls, windows, and facade elements, with multiple active violations related to building facade maintenance remaining as of December 2024. The building's maintenance history reveals ongoing challenges with building systems and maintenance compliance. Open violations from 2024 include issues with broken windows, damaged terra cotta, and facade-related problems.

Multiple Housing Maintenance Code violations have been issued, particularly in 2024, concerning doors, windows, and water-related issues. The Department of Buildings records indicate various maintenance violations over the years, including problems with the elevator systems, facade maintenance, and electrical wiring. While the building has maintained a consistent record of bedbug-free status since 2019, rodent inspections have shown mixed results, with two failures recorded in 2024. The building's recent history shows a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive resolution of ongoing issues, with many complaints being filed multiple times before inspection, and some violations remaining open for extended periods.