4575 Furman Avenue, Bronx, NY 10470

The two-family house at 4575 Furman Avenue in Wakefield, owned by Ruth Hechavarria and built in 1905, has experienced a series of concerning issues recently. In November 2023, multiple complaints were filed and inspected by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), resulting in several violations being issued. These violations include unsanitary conditions with active pest infestations (specifically mice and roaches), a water leak in the kitchen ceiling, issues with the bathtub drain pipe, and problems with light fixtures and carbon monoxide detectors in Apartment 1.

The building is currently facing four open violations from the November 2023 inspection, including improper vanity securement, required painting, plaster repair needs, and ongoing pest infestation concerns. The property has a significant history of maintenance issues, including a period of illegal occupancy with unauthorized basement apartment construction that resulted in an active Environmental Control Board violation from 2018, carrying a $2,500 penalty. Recent service requests from November 2023 also noted problems with plumbing (bathtub/shower and sink), heating/hot water, and various appliance issues, though most of these complaints were closed without violations being issued.

A rodent inspection from 2022 passed, but a similar inspection from 2010 had also passed, suggesting previous pest control efforts were initially effective. It's worth noting that many of the recent complaints were filed on the same day (November 3, 2023), indicating a possible pattern of simultaneous maintenance issues affecting the building. The property's age and history suggest ongoing maintenance challenges, though recent inspections have shown some improvements in compliance, with the majority of complaints being resolved or closed through inspection, even if violations remain open.