56 East 174th Street, Bronx, NY 10452

The 66-unit, 5-story New Law Tenement building at 56 East 174th Street in Mount Eden, owned by Matthew Schmelzer, has experienced significant structural and maintenance issues since 2023. Of particular concern are three active foundation-related Environmental Control Board violations from October 2023, documenting serious facade problems including loose bricks, structural cracks, and deteriorated mortar joints affecting multiple building elevations.

These structural issues are potentially hazardous and require urgent attention, with one violation alone imposing a $6,250 penalty. The building has also faced ongoing plumbing and water-related challenges throughout 2025, with multiple open maintenance code complaints regarding water supply issues and several recent 311 service requests related to water leaks, damp spots, and plumbing failures. Recent inspection records indicate persistent pest control challenges, with multiple complaints about unsanitary conditions and rodent activity in 2024-2025, though some inspections have resulted in "Passed" ratings.

The building experienced heating system issues in early 2025, with multiple complaints about lack of heat and hot water affecting the entire building. Structural concerns were highlighted by multiple Department of Buildings inspections in October 2023, revealing problems with the fire escape system, window conditions, and the building's overall structural integrity. Despite these numerous violations and complaints, many 311 service requests and HPD inspections have closed without violations being issued, though some recent complaints remain in progress or open status, such as a May 2025 complaint about smoking in a non-smoking area.