528 East 142nd Street, Bronx, NY 10454

528 East 142nd Street, a 5-story New Law Tenement built in 1915 with 30 units, currently faces multiple maintenance and safety concerns under the ownership of Jorge Ruiz. The building has experienced recurring water-related issues, with multiple plumbing/water supply emergencies recorded throughout 2025, including a heavy water leak complaint in May 2025 that resulted in HPD violations.

Other documented concerns include electrical problems (outlet/switch issues), pest infestations, and various interior maintenance needs such as floor repairs and ceiling plastering, with some of these matters showing as open or recently closed violations. The property has a history of significant regulatory challenges, including illegal apartment-related violations in 2023-2024, with the basement area reportedly converted into unauthorized living space with bathroom and kitchen facilities. Several important safety violations were recorded in 2023, including concerns about fire escape maintenance, obstructed exit passages, and fire stopping requirements.

The building underwent inspection following a fire incident in June 2020, which caused minor structural damage and raised concerns about fire protection integrity. While bedbug reports for the past four years show no active infestations, rodent inspections reveal inconsistent results, with rat activity recorded as recently as January 2025. The building's maintenance history shows regular inspections by various city agencies, with some instances of access denial during inspections and multiple open violations requiring correction.