1608 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10031

The 18-unit, 5-story building at 1608 Amsterdam Avenue in Hamilton Heights, owned by Marius Chira and constructed in 1910, has experienced numerous maintenance and compliance issues in recent years. The property has a recurring pattern of heat and hot water complaints, with three such incidents reported in 2023 alone, including emergency-level complaints in March and October 2023 when inspectors were unable to gain access for verification. Multiple violations were documented in 2023, particularly affecting apartments 2A, 4A, and 5A, including issues with plumbing (sink), flooring, intercom system, and safety equipment like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

The building has also faced structural concerns, as evidenced by a building stability complaint in October 2024, though no violation was found at inspection. The property has been under consistent observation for sanitation issues, with rodent inspections passing annually between 2016 and 2025, and no bedbug infestations reported in the past six years according to official filings. However, there were significant maintenance violations documented in 2023-2024, including an active violation for failing to file required external low-pressure inspections in 2023. The Department of Buildings recorded several permit and compliance issues, including sidewalk shed violations with associated penalties in 2019, though more recent complaints about sidewalk shed management in 2024 resulted in only a warning.

While some building system issues have been documented, such as plumbing and heating concerns, inspections generally indicate that many complaints are either resolved or do not warrant violation status upon inspection. The building's recent history shows a particular focus on addressing various maintenance and safety issues, with open violations primarily relating to specific apartment features rather than building-wide systems. The property has generally maintained compliance with basic safety requirements, as demonstrated by passing rodent inspections and the absence of recent bedbug issues, though the recurrence of heat and hot water complaints suggests ongoing system challenges. The owner has faced several enforcement actions related to unpermitted work and safety equipment maintenance, indicating areas requiring continued oversight and attention.