2645 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109

2645 Van Ness Avenue, a 12-unit multi-family residential building constructed in 1924, has undergone significant maintenance and renovation work in recent years, with over $400,000 invested in unit improvements since 2022. The property has seen systematic upgrades to multiple units, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, heating system replacements, and electrical upgrades for units 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9, with the most recent work in unit 4 being issued in January 2024. A major soft-story retrofit was completed in 2017 at a cost of $130,000, bringing the building into compliance with seismic safety requirements. However, the building has experienced several concerning incidents and violations, particularly in the past year.

There were multiple safety violations documented in December 2023, relating to storage items, exterior appendages, and routine inspection access, though these were abated by January 2024. A significant safety incident occurred in February 2024 involving a gas leak and an explosion, while complaints about window weatherproofing and a broken fire escape window emerged in late 2023. The building's maintenance history reveals ongoing issues with building systems, including a poorly maintained boiler system that required permit renewal in late 2023, and recurring problems with building safety features such as smoke detectors and fire escape maintenance. Recent complaints have highlighted concerns about construction debris, water leaks, and electrical systems, though many of these issues have been addressed through subsequent repairs or permit work.

The property has also experienced several historical violations requiring attention to lead paint safety, building envelope maintenance, and general building code compliance, though these were ultimately resolved. Recent 311 calls primarily relate to street-level issues such as garbage and debris, which while not directly impacting tenant safety, indicate ongoing building maintenance challenges. The building's recent history shows substantial investment in unit improvements and infrastructure upgrades, though significant safety and maintenance concerns remain. While many renovation projects have been properly permitted and completed, the frequency of repairs and incidents suggests ongoing challenges with building systems and resident safety. Recent fire safety violations, including blocked exits and combustible materials, highlight areas requiring continued attention to maintain resident safety.