7603 18th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11214

The 4-story, 15-unit residential building at 7603 18th Avenue in Bensonhurst, owned by Ruvane Vilinsky, has experienced several concerning maintenance issues over the past five years. Most recently, in early 2025, there were multiple unresolved complaints regarding windows, doors, and lighting, all of which HPD inspectors were unable to access for verification despite emergency designation. In late 2024, a significant heat and hot water complaint affecting the entire building was similarly unverified due to access issues. The building has a documented history of maintenance challenges, including a broken window guard reported in September 2023, with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) frequently unable to gain access for inspections.

Historical issues include a period of pest problems in late 2020, and various maintenance complaints from 2018-2021 regarding boiler problems, fire escape blockages, and water leak issues. The building underwent several repairs and improvements, as evidenced by multiple permits issued for plumbing and electrical work between 2018-2023. Four bedbug reports filed between 2019-2024 show no documented infestations or required eradication efforts during these periods. The property has maintained valid bedbug reports showing zero affected units in recent years, with the most recent filings (2024-2025) indicating no infestations or eradication efforts required.

The building's maintenance record shows a mix of resolved and ongoing issues. Notable improvements include the resolution of various violations regarding air conditioning unit supports, fire retardant plaster repairs, and painting requirements in common areas. However, the repeated inability to gain access for inspections, particularly regarding emergency complaints in 2025 and late 2024, raises concerns about maintenance response protocols. While the building has maintained compliance with bedbug reporting requirements and has received multiple permits for maintenance work, the frequency of complaints and the pattern of access issues for inspections suggest ongoing challenges with building maintenance and resident communication about access for inspections and repairs.