60-16 56Th Avenue, Queens, NY 11378

The three-unit residential building at 60-16 56th Avenue in Maspeth, owned by Gao Chen and completed in 2020, has experienced significant maintenance and compliance issues since its construction. Most notably, there are **ongoing building violations** issued in 2023 related to unauthorized cellar conversions, including the presence of an illegal kitchen with gas range, sink, and full bathroom facilities, along with approximately 700 square feet of visible mold conditions affecting walls and ceilings. These violations, categorized under **Environmental Control Board Violations**, carry penalties of $2,500 and $6,250 respectively.

The building has also faced recurring plumbing and sanitation problems, particularly evident in September 2023 when multiple complaints were filed and investigated by HPD, including issues with water leaks, sewage, and mold, though no violations were ultimately issued for these cases. The property has a documented pattern of illegal conversion concerns, with several **Department of Buildings complaints** about unauthorized cellar usage and renovations between 2019 and 2025. While the building was constructed as a Class A residence (3 stories/3 units), there is substantial evidence indicating improper use of the cellar space.

Historical maintenance issues include **bedbug reporting violations** in 2022 and 2023, along with various appliance and ventilation system complaints in 2021. A construction-related violation was recorded in 2020 regarding inadequate scaffolding during work, though this was subsequently resolved. While the building has obtained the necessary permits for its construction and subsequent modifications, the persistence of occupancy-related violations suggests continued non-compliance with building regulations, particularly regarding cellar usage.