2552 University Avenue, Bronx, NY 10468

The 55-unit, 5-story pre-war tenement at 2552 University Avenue in Kingsbridge, built in 1922 and currently owned by Carlos Hernandez, has experienced significant maintenance and safety issues in recent years. Most notably, the building suffered a serious fire incident in October 2024 that affected multiple floors (2N, 3N, 4N, 5N) and resulted in extensive damage to stairwells, ceilings, railings, and emergency lighting. The fire caused water damage throughout the building and compromised the roof structure. Following this incident, there were violations issued regarding fire damage remediation requirements, though these were certified as corrected by late October 2024. In 2025, the building has faced ongoing challenges with heating systems, as evidenced by multiple HPD complaints regarding heat and hot water issues throughout the building, particularly in early 2025.

The property has also experienced persistent plumbing concerns, with multiple reports of water leaks, sink issues, and plumbing problems being documented through 2025. Inspection records reveal a pattern of rodent activity, with several inspections in 2024-2025 showing rat presence and the application of bait stations. Additionally, there are open violations as of June 2025 regarding plumbing issues in the bathtub/shower and water supply systems. The building's maintenance history shows a recurring pattern of various infrastructure issues, including problems with electrical wiring, heating systems, and water supply systems. While some violations have been resolved and permits issued for maintenance work, there remains an ongoing need for attention to basic building systems.

The property has experienced periods of bedbug infestation between 2019 and 2024, with the most recent report from December 2024 indicating one infested unit that was treated. The building's age and history suggest that while some repairs and maintenance have been performed, many basic systems require ongoing attention and systematic improvement. Recent complaints and violations demonstrate various maintenance issues, including HVAC problems (with multiple heat/hot water complaints), plumbing concerns (such as leaks and sink issues), and the presence of rodents. These ongoing challenges suggest a pattern of infrastructure maintenance needs that require consistent attention. The building's fire incident in 2024 significantly impacted multiple floors and building systems, though subsequent inspections indicate that some corrective actions were taken.