689 Prospect Avenue, Bronx, NY 10455

The two-story, three-unit building at 689 Prospect Avenue in Longwood, owned by Ramon Sanchez and built in 1901, has experienced numerous maintenance and safety issues over recent years. Most notably, the property is currently facing multiple active violations related to its low-pressure boiler system, with six open violations dating from 2018 through 2023 for failure to file required inspections. In 2024, significant concerns were raised about unauthorized modifications to the building, with violations issued for creating four unauthorized SRO units in the basement, along with improper window modifications and plumbing work, resulting in a $2,500 penalty.

The building has a documented history of pest problems, with multiple complaints about infestations continuing through 2022, though a rodent inspection from September 2023 passed. The property has also experienced recurring issues with heat and hot water, particularly evident in a series of complaints in 2021, though in several cases inspectors were unable to gain access to verify the conditions. Several other maintenance issues have been documented, including problems with paint and plaster, flooring, and window repair needs in Apartment 3, which has multiple open violations from 2021.

The building's basement area allegedly underwent unauthorized modifications, adding rooms and bathrooms beyond what its certificate of occupancy permits, though some related violations have been marked as resolved. While the building has passed some inspections, it has a notable pattern of complaints where inspectors were unable to gain access for verification. A more recent inspection in 2024 related to construction enforcement work raised no violations, though previous illegal conversion complaints from 2024 resulted in a partial vacate order being served. The property's maintenance record shows a mix of resolved violations and ongoing concerns, particularly regarding building systems and unauthorized modifications.