158 Vermilyea Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10034

The five-story, 26-unit New Law tenement building at 158 Vermilyea Avenue in Inwood, owned by Esther Kohen, has experienced significant maintenance issues in recent years. Most notably, in mid-2025, the building faced multiple violations including problems with walls, mold, and flooring, with particularly concerning issues in Unit 2B regarding water damage and plaster conditions. Historical records show persistent pest issues, with multiple pest-related complaints in May 2025, though the building has maintained a zero infestation count in recent bedbug reports from 2020-2024.

The building's history reveals several concerning patterns, including water-related problems (with a notable heavy flow leak reported in June 2025), issues with building access during inspections, and multiple violations regarding sanitation and maintenance. A thorough inspection of Unit 2B in October 2024 resulted in multiple violations including problems with plaster surfaces, paint conditions, and missing safety devices, though these were certified as resolved by December 2024. The property has also faced external scrutiny with multiple Department of Buildings inspections and complaints regarding structural stability and water drainage in 2021, though no violations were ultimately found in these cases.

Regular rodent inspections show ongoing challenges, with multiple "Rat Activity" findings between 2022 and 2024, though the most recent inspection in April 2025 resulted in a passing grade. Recent HPD complaints and violations, including paint/plaster issues, unsanitary conditions, and water problems, indicate continuing maintenance challenges, though many of these violations allowed for correction periods rather than immediate penalties. The building's management has generally responded to complaints and violations, with most issues being addressed and closed through official channels, though there have been instances of inspectors being unable to complete their evaluations.