174 Chestnut Street, Brooklyn, NY 11208

174 Chestnut Street is a 2-story, 4-unit New Law Tenement building located in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, constructed in 1915 and currently owned by Solomon Jacobowitz. The property has experienced significant issues in recent years, most notably undergoing a serious fire incident in 2023 that impacted multiple units and the roof structure, leading to several Class C violations related to fire damage in Apartment 3 and various building components.

Of particular concern is the building's current status as non-compliant due to fire damage, as well as open violations regarding unlawful Single Room Occupancy (SRO) use in Apartments 3 and 4, and a failure to submit an acceptable inspection report for structurally compromised conditions. The building has faced ongoing maintenance challenges throughout 2023, with multiple complaints about indoor air quality, including chemical vapors, sewage odors, and an asbestos complaint in late 2023. There were also several reports of unsanitary conditions, including mold and pest issues, though no violations were ultimately issued following HPD inspections.

Historical records from late 2019 show multiple heating and water supply issues affecting both entire building and individual apartments, as well as a plumbing problem. The Department of Buildings has recorded violations related to unauthorized additional dwelling units and work without permit, specifically concerning modifications made to the cellar level. Despite these numerous complaints and violations, the building has passed rodent inspections in 2012, 2013, and 2018.