51-55 Van Kleeck Street, Queens, NY 11373

The 77-unit, 6-story building at 51-55 Van Kleeck Street in Elmhurst, owned by Sol Knopf and constructed in 1963, has experienced several significant maintenance and safety issues in recent years. Most notably, in June 2025, multiple violations were issued for unsanitary conditions (including pest issues), plumbing problems (toilet), and safety concerns involving smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These violations were inspected and documented by HPD.

The building has a history of elevator issues, with complaints in 2020 and 2024 regarding single device operation with no alternate service, though no violations were warranted upon inspection. Between 2023-2024, there were multiple violations related to self-closing doors and latches in common areas, particularly involving the stairway doors and compactor closet on various floors, all of which were subsequently closed after certification of corrections. The property has documented bedbug issues, with the most recent report from June 2025 showing one infested unit that was eradicated, following a pattern of infestations in previous years (notably in 2019 and 2021).

Rat activity has been a recurring concern, with the building passing initial inspections in 2021 and 2025, but showing evidence of rodent problems in 2018. Recent Housing Maintenance Code violations include issues with window frames and ceiling conditions in the common areas and apartments. The building also had a notable incident in late 2023 regarding debris and potential falling hazards, and environmental violations were recorded for improperly installed window AC units in 2023 with a resulting penalty. While many historical violations have been resolved, including water leak repairs in Apartment 3D and various door and latch replacements, the pattern of recurring maintenance issues suggests ongoing challenges with building upkeep and resident comfort.