1870 Palmetto Street, Queens, NY 11385

The three-story, six-unit building at 1870 Palmetto Street in Ridgewood, owned by Steve Wilches, has faced recurring issues with its heating system over the past few years. The most recent heat/hot water complaint was recorded in May 2024, following a pattern of similar complaints in 2023 and 2022, with multiple instances where HPD inspectors were unable to gain access to the building for verification purposes. In June 2024, approximately nine Housing Maintenance Code violations were issued specifically for apartment 3L, including problems with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, window guards, cabinet doors, and evidence of pest infestation (roaches).

The building has also experienced water supply and plumbing issues, as well as concerns about fire escape maintenance, though many of these violations were addressed and closed. The boiler system appears to be a persistent concern, with multiple complaints from 2022 through 2024 noting defective or inoperative conditions, though inspectors frequently encountered access issues. An active $500 violation related to the heating system signage in the boiler room remains open as of now.

Recent inspections in 2024 indicated some rodent activity, though a subsequent compliance inspection resulted in a passing grade. Notably, the building suffered from various maintenance issues throughout 2024, including emergency repairs needed for doors, windows, and unsanitary conditions, with multiple violations requiring attention to mold, pests, and safety equipment. While some complaints have been resolved through inspections and repairs, the building's maintenance record shows a pattern of access-related inspection failures and recurring heat system problems that have persisted over multiple years, with varying degrees of responsiveness to maintenance requests.