716 Franklin Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238

The four-story, 12-unit Old Law Tenement building at 716 Franklin Avenue in Crown Heights, owned by Kapil Balroop and constructed in 1900, has experienced a series of notable maintenance and safety issues over the past few years, with the majority of significant events occurring in 2024. The building has documented multiple violations and maintenance issues, including persistent water leaks, ventilation system problems, and mold concerns. In early 2024, there were several complaints requiring HPD inspections, including issues with window guards, plumbing systems, and unsanitary conditions such as mold.

Particularly concerning were the violations related to unit 4B, where issues with the ventilation system, electrical systems, and various repair needs were documented between February and March 2024. As of May 2024, multiple open violations remain regarding building security and door mechanisms, specifically involving a magnetic lock installation and defective self-closing doors at the first-story public hall. The building has also experienced various health and safety incidents, including food-related complaints in 2024 and 2025, though these appeared to be isolated incidents according to DOHMH responses.

While recent rodent inspections in 2025 showed compliance, there was evidence of rat activity earlier in 2024, with multiple inspections reporting this issue. The property has maintained an active record of addressing health and safety concerns, with most complaints being closed after HPD inspections, though some open violations regarding building security systems remain as of May 2024. A bedbug inspection report for the period from November 2022 to October 2023 showed no infestation or eradication issues, indicating this particular pest has not been a problem in recent years.