163 Chestnut Street, Brooklyn, NY 11208

The three-story, three-unit tenement building at 163 Chestnut Street in Cypress Hills, owned by Pircilla Howell, has experienced a series of maintenance and safety issues over the past several years, particularly in the most recent reporting period of 2023-2025. As of the most recent inspection in November 2023, the building has multiple open violations related to safety equipment and building maintenance, including issues with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the third-floor apartment (#3), heating system access, and the need to post various safety notices in common areas. The building's service history reveals recurring problems with heat and hot water systems, evidenced by multiple HPD complaints in 2022 and 2023, as well as more recent issues with pests and sanitation.

Specifically, just in late 2023, there were complaints about mouse sightings and insufficient heating conditions that required government intervention, though some inspections were unable to gain access to verify conditions. Other maintenance issues documented include plumbing problems, power outages, and unsanitary conditions in the past year. The building's safety systems have come under scrutiny, particularly in 2023 when violations were issued regarding defective smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in Apartment #3.

The property is currently classified with several open violations from the November 2023 inspection, including requirements to post safety notices, provide proper heating system access, and maintain clear paths in public areas. While the building did not demonstrate any bedbug infestations during the last reporting period (2021-2022) according to the required annual report, these inspections have revealed various ongoing maintenance and safety equipment issues that require attention. The last rodent inspection from 2012 showed passing conditions, though recent complaints and the current violation status suggest potential concerns in this area as well.