391 East 198th Street, Bronx, NY 10458

The three-story, three-unit tenement building at 391 East 198th Street in Fordham, constructed in 1910 and currently owned by Luis Fabre, has experienced consistent heating system challenges in recent years. The most recent heating-related incidents occurred in December 2024 and October 2024, affecting both the entire building and individual apartments, though heat and hot water were reportedly restored before inspections could be completed. In 2024, there was also an active violation regarding an illegal double cylinder key-operated lock at the entrance to Apartment 1. Of particular note is a significant fire incident in 2024 affecting Apartment 3, for which a violation was issued.

The building has a documented history of various complaints and violations requiring attention. In 2020, multiple heating and hot water-related complaints were filed, with violations issued regarding inadequate heat and hot water provision. The building has also faced regulatory scrutiny, with several Department of Buildings complaints in 2023 regarding boiler issues, illegal conversions, and construction compliance, though inspections were often unable to gain access to verify the conditions. Additionally, there are multiple open Housing Maintenance Code violations from 2024-2023 regarding bedbug reporting requirements.

Environmental Control Board violations from 2020 remain active, related to improper gas connection and water heater installation procedures, with associated penalties totaling $12,000. The building's rodent inspections show a generally improving trend, with the most recent August 2024 inspection resulting in a "Passed" status, though there were failures noted in 2021-2022. The property has a history of pest-related issues, with multiple unsanitary condition complaints regarding pests in 2019, though HPD was unable to access the premises for inspection. The building's maintenance history shows periodic challenges with various systems and compliance requirements, and while many issues have been addressed and closed, there are several open violations and penalties that require attention. The presence of multiple heating system complaints, fire incidents, and active violations suggests ongoing maintenance and compliance challenges that affect resident comfort and safety.