2 Old Chinatown Ln, San Francisco, CA 94108

The 31-unit, 4-story multi-family residential building at 2 Old Chinatown Lane, owned by Chl International Associate and built in 1907, has experienced several significant maintenance issues and safety concerns over the past few years. Most recently, in 2023, there have been multiple fire safety violations including problems with the alarm systems, sleeping area requirements, and combustible materials. The building is currently facing boiler permit renewal issues as of November 2024. There have been ongoing concerns about the building's maintenance and habitability, including a significant complaint in 2021 regarding inadequate cleaning procedures and water overflow issues from the 4th-floor washing machine.

The property has received several important upgrades and maintenance services, including a fire alarm system upgrade with radio and low-frequency sounders in 2021, roof replacement in 2015, and boiler replacements in 2013 and 2022. Building permits show attention to accessibility improvements, such as the 2023 business entrance barrier remediation project, and various plumbing repairs including bathroom pipe repairs in 2011. Historical violations from 2013 included multiple building and fire safety issues including hallway storage concerns, damaged walls, and painting requirements. Recent electrical work includes the installation of decorative lights in Ross Alley in 2019 and various unit-specific improvements.

The building has a mix of completed and issued permits for various repairs and improvements, suggesting ongoing maintenance activity, though some recent fire safety violations indicate persistent system maintenance challenges. Despite these issues, many past violations have been properly abated, including multiple fire system and building safety violations from 2018-2023. The ownership has demonstrated responsiveness to various maintenance requirements, as evidenced by recent permits and repairs. However, the recent cluster of fire safety violations in 2023-2024 suggests that fire safety systems continue to require active attention. The building's history shows a pattern of both routine maintenance and periodic significant issues requiring correction, with the most recent concerns focusing primarily on fire safety system maintenance and compliance.