1590 Undercliff Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453

The 14-story, 150-unit residential building at 1590 Undercliff Avenue in Morris Heights, owned by Joseph Halpert, has experienced numerous maintenance and safety issues in recent months. Most notably, as of June 2025, there are multiple open maintenance complaints including problems with doors/windows, flooring, plumbing (sink issues), kitchen cabinets, and mold (including significant unsanitary conditions). The building has also faced serious structural concerns, with a June 2025 partial vacate order issued for the entire parking garage (levels 1 and 2) due to unsafe conditions including spalling slab, concrete deterioration, and exposed rebar. There is also an active elevator device complaint from October 2024, and previous concerns about building shaking and settling.

The property has had recurring water-related issues, with multiple violations and complaints regarding leaks, including a recent emergency water leak complaint in May 2025. The building has a documented history of various violations and code enforcement issues, including problems with fire safety equipment (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors), water supply, and security systems. Between 2023 and 2025, there were multiple violations regarding elevator maintenance and inspection reporting, though many of these were subsequently dismissed. Environmental concerns include a notable incident in 2024 involving flooding in the electrical room creating potential electrocution hazards, and historical issues with interior conditions including mold and water damage in multiple apartments.

While bedbug infestations have been minimal according to reporting records for 2021-2024, there are ongoing challenges with rodent activity, with recent inspections in 2025 confirming rat presence despite previous baiting efforts. The building's most recent inspection history suggests ongoing maintenance challenges, with several complaints requiring inspection having been either partially addressed or inspections unable to be completed. Multiple violations remain open as of mid-2025, particularly regarding various maintenance issues that have required HPD involvement. The property has a complex history of violations related to various systems and maintenance requirements, with some issues being recurring in nature, particularly concerning water damage, mold, and elevator systems.