103-20 53rd Avenue, Queens, NY 11368

The property at 103-20 53rd Avenue in Corona is a 2-family, 2-story building owned by Franklin Taveras and built in 1920. The building has experienced persistent heating system issues throughout 2024-2025, with ten documented complaints of heat and hot water problems between December 2024 and April 2025, all marked as emergencies and requiring HPD intervention. These complaints represent a significant and ongoing maintenance challenge.

Additionally, there are several active ECB violations from late 2021 related to unauthorized construction work and occupancy issues, including unauthorized sub-division of spaces and installation of additional utilities, with penalties totaling over $18,000. The building has also faced pest control challenges, with documented infestations of mice and roaches in multiple apartments between 2022-2024. While some of these violations were previously closed, there are open violations from November 2024 specifically regarding pest infestations and defective faucets in the first-floor apartment.

Earlier complaints from 2021-2022 included issues with electrical systems and ventilation, though inspections did not find violations in response to those specific complaints. The building's maintenance record shows a pattern of recurring issues, most notably with the heating system, which has required multiple emergency interventions in recent months. The property has also faced scrutiny for possible illegal alterations and occupancy violations, with multiple ECB violations still active as of 2025. While there were some documented pest control improvements in late 2024, the building's overall history suggests ongoing challenges with maintaining basic services and complying with housing regulations.