538 East 21st Street, Brooklyn, NY 11226

The 6-story, 53-unit building at 538 East 21st Street in Flatbush, owned by Carl Zekaria, has experienced significant maintenance issues recently, particularly regarding heating systems and pest control. From February to April 2025, there were multiple complaints about heat and hot water problems throughout the building, with several service requests being closed due to inability to gain access for inspection. The building also faced several sanitary challenges during this period, with four separate complaints about pests filed in February 2025, all of which were closed under similar circumstances of inaccessible units for inspection.

Notably, violations were documented in late 2023 in Apartment F9, including rodent and cockroach infestations, along with issues relating to carbon monoxide detectors. The building's history shows recurring elevator maintenance concerns, with multiple complaints about single-device service and no alternate service between 2018 and 2024. Recent inspections have revealed continuing issues with rat activity, as evidenced by multiple compliance inspections and bait applications throughout 2024 and early 2025. Additional maintenance concerns were identified in 2023, including water heater access issues, door repair needs, and roof leak problems in Apartment F7.

While the building has had bedbug infestations in the past, recent filings from 2023-2024 show no active infestations, with previous units reportedly treated successfully. The property has demonstrated some responsiveness to violations, with several documented as "closed" following remediation attempts. However, the recurring nature of heating system problems, pest control issues, and elevator concerns suggests ongoing maintenance challenges. The building's age (constructed in 1931) and current condition appear to create a complex maintenance landscape requiring regular attention to basic systems and infrastructure.