3128 Villa Avenue, Bronx, NY 10468

The 27-unit, 5-story tenement building at 3128 Villa Avenue in Norwood, owned by Jay Gelb, has experienced numerous maintenance issues throughout 2024-2025. Most recently, in June 2025, there were multiple service requests for plumbing issues involving bathtubs/showers, door frames, and pest problems, with some complaints resulting in violations being issued. The building has a concerning pattern of plumbing and heat-related problems, including two separate incidents of heat/hot water issues affecting the entire building in March 2025, though these were reportedly resolved.

There are multiple open violations from late 2024 affecting apartments 3 and 5, including problems with plaster surfaces, water leaks, window mechanisms, wood floors, and radiator connections. The building has a history of pest infestations, with documented rodent activity throughout 2024-2025, and reports of both mice and cockroach infestations in apartment 26. Bedbug incidents have been recorded annually from 2022 to 2025, though none have been reported in the most recent filing period.

Past violations include serious fire safety concerns from 2019 related to blocked exit passageways, for which penalties were imposed though later resolved. The Department of Buildings has documented several complaints about illegal conversions and building stability concerns, though inspections were unable to gain access in multiple cases. Current permit applications indicate some ongoing maintenance activities, with at least one permit having been issued in 2024. The building's maintenance history suggests ongoing challenges with basic infrastructure and habitability issues, particularly regarding plumbing systems and pest control, though recent inspections have occasionally found conditions to be in compliance with housing codes.