286 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215

The four-story, 22-unit tenement building at 286 5th Avenue in Park Slope, owned by Robert Morgenstern, has experienced several recurring issues in recent years, with the most significant being persistent heating and hot water problems. Between 2022 and 2023, there were multiple complaints (at least seven) regarding lack of heat and hot water in the entire building, though in most cases, HPD was informed that service had been restored. More recently, in 2024-2025, there have been concerns about rodent activity, with multiple bait applications and inspections showing rat activity, though a compliance inspection in March 2025 passed. A recent complaint in May 2025 regarding unsanitary garbage/recycling storage was investigated but found not to violate housing laws.

The building has also undergone various inspections and faced multiple violations over the years. In 2022-2023, there were several Class A violations related to bedbug reporting requirements, though recent filings from 2024 show zero infested units. A 2023 inspection observed unauthorized cellar usage as a recreation room with sleeping arrangements. The property has shown some maintenance issues, particularly in 2021-2022, with violations noted for inadequate heat supply, access to heating systems, and various defects in apartments 4B, 4C, and 4F, including ceiling leaks and plaster problems.

While the building has faced multiple Department of Buildings complaints regarding illegal conversions and excessive debris, most were resolved without penalties, and violations for failure to file boiler inspection reports from 2019-2021 were dismissed. The property has maintained an active schedule of bedbug monitoring and eradication efforts from 2021 through 2024, recording zero infested units in all reporting periods. Regular inspections and rodent control measures have been implemented, with varying results. Recent inspections in 2024-2025 have shown improvement in compliance, though some work remains ongoing, particularly related to building systems and maintenance. The building's historical records show typical challenges for a century-old tenement, with particular attention needed to address recurring heating system issues and ensure prompt resolution of maintenance complaints.