1541-1545 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94133

The 4-unit multi-family residential building at 1541-1545 Powell Street in North Beach, built in 1923, has experienced several notable issues over its history, with the most concerning being a current active fire damage incident reported in April 2011. The building has faced multiple compliance challenges, particularly in 2007-2008, when violations were documented regarding heating systems, fire safety equipment, and smoke detection. These included a lack of heat in Unit 1541A, improperly maintained fire extinguishers, and various fire safety concerns that were ultimately abated by January 2008.

The property has also encountered plumbing issues, with reports of sewage backups in 2020-2021 and a possibly broken sewer line complaint in February 2021. Recent maintenance concerns have included sidewalk defects and debris issues reported in 2023-2024. Historical records indicate periodic inspections and violations, including a 2002 incident involving security and smoke detection systems that required repairs and upgrades, and a 2005 routine inspection that likely identified various maintenance needs.

The building's location has presented ongoing urban challenges, as evidenced by multiple 311 service requests in recent years for various issues including sidewalk maintenance and street cleaning. The property's commercial ground floor was legalized in 1983, and a sidewalk permit was issued in 2003. While many earlier violations have been resolved, the active fire damage case from 2011 and the more recent sewer-related issues from 2020-2021 suggest ongoing concerns with building systems.