133-38 Avery Avenue, Queens, NY 11355

The six-story, 24-unit residential building at 133-38 Avery Avenue in Flushing, owned by Munlai Chang, has experienced several significant maintenance and safety issues since its construction in 2001. The most concerning incident occurred in late 2019 when the entire building faced heating and hot water issues, leading to inspections by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and multiple violations.

A subsequent investigation in November 2019 revealed numerous violations primarily concentrated in apartment 3A, including problems with security doors, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, heating systems, and gas supply to fixtures, though many of these violations were subsequently addressed. The building has encountered several infrastructure challenges, including a 2021 elevator violation related to single device service and communication issues, with penalties imposed. A notable plumbing emergency in December 2019 required gas piping replacement to restore essential services, leading to an Environmental Control Board violation with a $2,500 penalty.

The elevator system has been a recurring concern, with an active violation from 2019 regarding uncorrected defects from a 2017 inspection. On a positive note, the building has maintained a consistent record of zero bedbug infestations over the past five reporting periods from 2021 to 2024, with the most recent reports showing no affected units. While the building has had its share of maintenance challenges, recent years have shown improved conditions, with many violations being resolved through proper channels.