642 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10460

The three-story, 2-family house at 642 Morris Park Avenue in the Van Nest neighborhood, currently owned by Ari Friedman, has experienced several significant maintenance issues over the past few years. Most recently, in April 2025, the building faced dual emergencies involving heat/hot water and electrical power outage problems, though both issues were reportedly resolved shortly after HPD's response. The building has a concerning history of utility-related problems, with similar heat and electricity issues emerging in late 2022, including a documented violation for inadequate heat/hot water.

Multiple inspections in 2024 revealed electrical outlet/switch and appliance issues, though no violations were issued. The property has also faced plumbing challenges, with emergency complaints regarding toilets and sinks in 2022, and a ceiling paint/plaster issue documented in 2019-2020. Of particular concern are two open violations documented in October 2022 regarding illegal apartment conversions, including one violation for creating an unlawful cooking space and another related to converting the building from a private dwelling to a multiple dwelling use.

These violations suggest unauthorized modifications to the building's structure and occupancy use. The building has undergone various inspections for rodent activity, with reports of rat activity in December 2022, though a subsequent February 2023 compliance inspection passed. While recent inspections in May 2025 related to Local Law 188/17 showed no violations, the property's maintenance history indicates ongoing challenges with basic utilities and compliance with housing regulations.