2197 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11229

The 35-unit, 6-story New Law Tenement building at 2197 Ocean Avenue in Sheepshead Bay, owned by Howard Tepler and constructed in 1928, has experienced several significant maintenance issues in recent years. Most concerning is a series of water-related problems in 2024, with multiple complaints about damp spots and mold, though HPD was often unable to gain access for inspection. The building has faced recurring heat and hot water issues, particularly noted in 2022, with multiple emergencies reported and generally resolved, though the pattern suggests persistent infrastructure challenges.

A rat sighting in April 2024 resulted in violations being found by the Department of Health, with follow-up inspections needed, though the building passed subsequent rodent inspections in June 2024. The elevator system has been a major area of concern, with multiple complaints about "Single Device on Property/No Alternate Service" in September 2023, and previous violations in 2021 related to fire service requirements. Recent building code violations from March 2024 include issues with public hall maintenance, such as paint conditions and a door self-closing mechanism at the first story vestibule.

The building's safety systems were addressed in 2022 when violations were issued for defective smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in apartment 6E, though these were subsequently resolved. Notably, the building has maintained a clean record regarding bedbug infestations since 2020, with no reported cases in the past five filing periods. While many violations and complaints have been resolved, the pattern of recurring maintenance issues, particularly regarding water, heat, and elevator systems, indicates ongoing infrastructure challenges.