1123 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94108

The 8-unit multi-family residential building at 1123 Clay Street in Nob Hill, owned by Lee Chester Yam & Wendy, was constructed in 1921 and is classified as a 3-story apartment building with 5 to 14 units. The building has experienced several significant safety and maintenance issues, particularly related to fire safety systems and egress. Between 2000 and 2016, there were multiple fire safety violations documented, including problems with the fire escape system, alarm panel certification, fire extinguisher maintenance, and combustible storage concerns.

While many of these violations were eventually abated, they indicate recurring fire safety issues over this time period. In 2018, there was a fire extinguisher-related complaint that was promptly resolved, and the building's most recent documented fire incident was an alarm malfunction with no civilian injuries. The building underwent reroofing work in 2003 (permit expired) and had a street space permit issued in 2006, though these permits had limited impact on resident safety.

Three separate routine inspections (2000, 2009, and 2016) were conducted, with various issues noted and resolved. More recent history includes a 2024 report of a damaged side sewer vent cover and two 2020 incidents involving hazardous materials and an encampment, though these were not directly related to the building's condition. The building has experienced recurring issues with blocked exits, particularly notable in 2011-2012, when multiple complaints were filed with the fire department regarding this safety concern. A significant complaint was filed in 2010 regarding unauthorized work being performed in two units, involving plumbing and electrical modifications without proper permits.