143-43 97th Avenue, Queens, NY 11435

The two-story, six-unit New Law Tenement at 143-43 97th Avenue in Jamaica, owned by Emily Villatoro, has experienced several notable maintenance issues in recent years. The building, constructed in 1931, is currently facing open violations from a May 2024 inspection related to self-closing doors in multiple locations, including a vestibule door and the entrance to apartment 1R, as well as required safety notices regarding gas leak procedures and housing information guidelines.

A bedbug reporting violation from April 2024 requires filing of an annual report, and there is an ongoing mold issue in apartment 1R's bathroom ceiling (approximately 2 sq ft) that was documented in December 2023. The property has a concerning history of maintenance complaints, particularly over the past year. Between June 2024 and June 2025, there were multiple service requests and Housing Maintenance Code complaints regarding heat/hot water issues, water leaks, plumbing problems (particularly involving toilets), and an unsanitary garbage/recycling storage situation.

Several inspection attempts by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) were unable to gain access to investigate reported issues, including complaints about flooring/stairs, plumbing, and doors/windows in July 2024. The building has also faced health department scrutiny in 2025 regarding smoking/vaping violations in smoke-free areas and a daycare facility complaint, though these service requests were closed without penalties. While some complaints have been promptly addressed, including a recent heat/hot water issue in June 2025, the pattern of unresolved or recurring maintenance issues suggests ongoing challenges with building upkeep.