2044 Strauss Street, Brooklyn, NY 11212

The two-family house at 2044 Strauss Street in Brownsville, owned by Fritz Edwards, is an 85-year-old building that has experienced persistent maintenance issues, particularly regarding its heating system and general building condition. The most pressing current concerns, as of July 2025, include multiple open violations related to lead-based paint hazards in Apartment 2FLOOR, particularly affecting ceilings and various walls, as well as a November 2023 violation regarding a defective carbon monoxide detector in Apartment 2. The building has a documented history of heating system problems, with emergency heat/hot water complaints continuing into 2024, including violations related to a defective boiler system that led to multiple Environmental Control Board violations.

During 2022, the building faced several maintenance challenges, including unsanitary conditions involving pests and mold, along with water leak issues. A notable cluster of complaints occurred in October 2022, with at least nine separate incidents reported within a 13-day period, primarily focusing on heating system failures. More recent documentation shows ongoing concerns with the boiler system, with the Department of Buildings issuing multiple violations between December 2023 and January 2024 related to boiler defects and inoperative equipment.

These violations included issues with steam pipe connections and evidence of burned-through components. The front porch was also noted to have a leaking roof and structural concerns. While some violations have been resolved or closed, such as certain mold and water leak issues from 2022, the pattern of heating system problems and the emergence of lead paint violations in 2024 suggest continuing challenges with building maintenance. The property has undergone multiple HPD inspections, with varied outcomes regarding the ability to verify and address reported issues, particularly during periods when access to units was not granted for inspection purposes.