131 Hancock Street, Brooklyn, NY 11216

The three-unit, 1884 Bed-Stuy brownstone at 131 Hancock Street, owned by Matthew Ahdoot, has experienced numerous maintenance issues in recent years, particularly in 2025. The building currently faces challenges with access for necessary inspections, as evidenced by multiple recent complaints (June 2025) regarding water supply and heat/hot water problems where HPD inspectors were unable to gain access. Earlier in 2025, there were multiple complaints about various issues including plumbing problems, unsanitary conditions (including mold and pests), electrical concerns, and door/window issues, all of which HPD was also unable to inspect.

The building has experienced recurring heat and hot water issues, with complaints documented in both January and June 2025. The property has a history of regulatory matters, including three open Housing Maintenance Code violations from January 2022 relating to bedbug reporting requirements and gas leak notice postings, though one Class C violation regarding self-closing entrance doors was closed. A notable incident occurred in 2018 involving unauthorized renovation work, which resulted in an active Environmental Control Board violation (with a $1,250 penalty) for work without a permit, specifically concerning renovation of a duplex apartment with electrical modifications.

Recent rodent inspections show mixed results, with rat activity recorded in late 2023, followed by passing inspections in 2024 and 2025. The building's bedbug reporting history indicates no infestations in the past three reporting periods (2022-2024). While there have been numerous complaints in recent months, the recurring issue appears to be access for inspections rather than persistent maintenance problems, as many complaints were closed with notes indicating inability to inspect. The building's age and history of various maintenance complaints suggest ongoing management challenges, particularly regarding timely response to and resolution of tenant-reported issues.