1397 East 2nd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11230

The 4-story, 31-unit New Law Tenement building at 1397 East 2nd Street in Midwood, owned by Getz Obstfeld, has experienced numerous maintenance issues over the past several years, with particularly concerning patterns emerging since 2022. Most recently, in 2025, there have been complaints regarding rodent conditions and refrigeration problems, though inspectors were unable to access the premises for verification. The building has a significant history of heat and hot water issues, with complaints in 2023, 2024, and 2025, some classified as emergencies and resulting in violations.

Multiple unsanitary conditions have been reported, including garbage storage issues, mold presence, and pest problems, particularly in mid-2024 when violations were issued. More troubling are the current open violations from July 2024 regarding safety concerns in apartment C6, including defective self-closing doors, exposed electrical wires, damaged plaster, and a reported roach infestation. The building has active Environmental Control Board violations from 2022 regarding obstructed exit passageways and façade disrepair, with penalties totaling $18,750.

Historical data shows the property has experienced recurring rodent activity, with inspections in 2016 and 2017 confirming the presence of rats. While bedbug reports since 2021 show no recorded infestations, and pest violations were resolved by 2024, the building continues to struggle with basic maintenance issues. The property has undergone various inspections and received both violation notices and fines over the years, though some complaints have been resolved without violations being issued. Recent months have seen continued maintenance challenges, including multiple 311 complaints and HPD inspections where access was not granted, suggesting potential communication or cooperation issues regarding building inspections.