499 East 8th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11218

The 83-unit, 6-story residential building at 499 East 8th Street in Kensington, constructed in 1963 and currently owned by Rubin Margules, has experienced significant maintenance issues in recent years. Most notably, there are ongoing rodent infestation concerns, with the latest rat sightings reported in March 2025 prompting DOHMH violations and follow-up inspections. The building has faced recurring heat and hot water problems, with a February 2025 emergency complaint being closed due to lack of access for inspection.

A cluster of violations was documented in May 2024, particularly affecting apartment 7L, including issues with mold (both visible and as a safety concern), pests (cockroaches and mice), plumbing fixtures, carbon monoxide detector, smoke detector, floor condition, and various cabinetry problems. Multiple Housing Maintenance Code violations remain open, particularly relating to apartment 7L's conditions. The building's systems and infrastructure have also shown inconsistencies, with violations related to elevator service (2021-2023), including a 2023 complaint about single device service with no alternate.

The property experienced facade maintenance issues according to an ECB violation from 2020, noting defective bulkhead and window lintel conditions. Recent plumbing, flooring, and paint/plaster complaints have been documented, with some resulting in violations during inspections. While the building has maintained a clean record for bedbugs since tracking began, with zero infestations reported between 2019-2025, the ongoing rodent problem and various maintenance violations suggest persistent upkeep challenges. The building is currently facing multiple active violations, including issues with the energy efficiency score display and unresolved swarming conditions, as well as failing to submit required facade inspection reports in recent years.