1696 Monroe Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457

Located in Claremont Village, 1696 Monroe Avenue is a 3-story, 3-unit building constructed in 1901 and currently owned by Alejandro Batisa Contreras. The building has experienced recurring maintenance issues over recent years, most notably ongoing pest problems, including two violations for roach infestation in Apartment 3 documented in November 2022. Multiple complaints have been filed regarding electrical issues, with violations recorded in 2022 related to faulty outlets and switches, particularly in Apartment 3.

The property has also faced several other maintenance challenges, including problems with flooring, doors, and sanitation, though many of these complaints were ultimately closed without violations being issued. The building's compliance history shows a mix of passed and failed inspections, particularly regarding rodent activity, with the most recent inspection in July 2025 resulting in a failure. Significant violations remain open, including an active complaint from November 2022 regarding illegal occupancy and unauthorized alterations of SRO units on the 2nd and 3rd floors, with a $6,250 penalty imposed.

Open violations from November 2022 pertain to various maintenance issues, including the need to properly repair electrical outlets, doors, and fire retardant materials. The property has maintained regular inspections and permits, with the most recent permit issued in October 2020 for electrical work. While some improvements have been made, as evidenced by several passed rodent inspections in 2024 and 2025, the building still faces ongoing challenges that affect resident comfort and compliance with housing codes.