455 61st Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220

455 61st Street is a 4-story, 17-unit New Law Tenement building in Sunset Park, constructed in 1912 and currently owned by 455 61st Street LLC. The building has a concerning pattern of heating system issues, with at least eight documented complaints about heat and hot water problems affecting the entire building between February 2023 and December 2024, all classified as emergency situations. These recurring heating problems seem to have persisted throughout 2024, with complaints continuing into late 2024.

The building also experienced several maintenance challenges in 2024, including plumbing issues, and multiple violations related to building security systems, mailboxes, and doors. Of particular note are several active violations regarding building safety, including a violation for obstructed fire escape egress due to air conditioners and unauthorized work involving a concrete retaining wall, with associated penalties totaling $10,000. The 4th floor apartment 15 has multiple open violations from 2024 related to water leaks, mold, ceiling damage, and window guard requirements. The building has maintained an active record regarding pest control, with consistent reports showing zero bedbug infestations for the past five reporting periods from 2020-2024.

While there was initial rat activity reported in June 2021, subsequent inspections do not show verified pest problems. The property has also faced challenges with compliance and building maintenance, with several violations remaining open as of 2024, including issues with the intercom system, entrance door latches, and various door-related problems. Recent inspections and complaints indicate ongoing concerns with building maintenance and systems, particularly regarding the heating infrastructure. However, it's worth noting that many HPD complaints were resolved relatively quickly, often within days of being reported, suggesting some responsiveness to tenant concerns.