421 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

The 8-unit, 4-story Old Law Tenement building at 421 Smith Street in Carroll Gardens, owned by Angel Rodriguez, has experienced ongoing heat and hot water system challenges throughout 2024, with multiple emergency complaints filed between January and November 2024. The building's heating system has been a particular concern, evidenced by multiple Housing Maintenance Code Violations in 2024, including an open violation from November 2024 regarding hot water access in apartment 4F, and previous violations related to inadequate heat and hot water supply affecting multiple units. Recent inspections have revealed access issues to the boiler room, with locked doors preventing proper inspection of the heating system.

While there have been several complaints regarding plumbing issues, including a sink problem in October 2024, these were typically addressed through inspections or directly by HPD. The building's management has maintained a clean record regarding bedbug infestations, with zero reported cases in annual filings from 2019 through 2024. Historical data shows a complaint regarding building vibrations in 2020 was investigated but found no violations.

Two complaints about unauthorized work in occupied multiple dwelling units were filed in early 2024, though inspections found no violations at the time. The property has generally maintained proper record-keeping with regular bedbug reporting, showing diligent compliance with this aspect of building maintenance. The building's maintenance history suggests recurring issues with heating system access and reliability, particularly affecting residents' comfort during colder months. While some violations have been promptly addressed through inspections and corrections, the pattern of heating system-related complaints and violations indicates an ongoing challenge with maintaining consistent heat and hot water services throughout the building.