4218 Digney Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466

The three-story residential building at 4218 Digney Avenue in Wakefield, owned by Herman Punch and constructed in 1910, has experienced numerous maintenance and safety issues over the past several years. Most notably, there is an ongoing bedbug reporting violation from 2021-2024 that remains open as of 2024. The building has a documented history of multiple emergencies between late 2019 and early 2020, including heat/hot water problems, plumbing issues (bathtub/shower, water supply, and boiler), electrical problems (no lighting), and safety concerns related to smoke detectors and window frames.

A significant cluster of complaints and violations emerged in early 2020 regarding unauthorized alterations, including multiple violations related to an allegedly illegal cellar apartment (CC) with unauthorized kitchen and bathroom facilities, as well as improper plumbing connections. During this period, multiple inspections were attempted but were denied access, though subsequent complaints were documented regarding mailbox issues, carbon monoxide detector concerns, and other general maintenance matters. The building's regulatory history shows several Class B and C violations related to illegal conversions and occupancy issues, particularly concerning the cellar apartment, which was cited for improper garbage/recycling storage and pest-related problems. A 2019 violation regarding a defective fire escape was noted as open.

While many of the 2020 violations were marked as closed, they reveal a pattern of maintenance and safety concerns that impacted the building's habitability. A review of 311 service requests shows recurring issues with basic services, including heat, hot water, and plumbing, with some complaints being closed due to lack of access for inspection. The Department of Buildings issued several complaints regarding illegal conversions in early 2020, though inspections were not able to verify the conditions. The most recent inspection in 2024 has revealed new bedbug reporting violations that remain unresolved.