1450 Vallejo St, San Francisco, CA 94109

The 19-unit, 3-story apartment building at 1450 Vallejo Street in Russian Hill, built in 1927 and currently owned by James M & Constance Chiao R, has experienced significant maintenance and safety issues in recent months. Most concerning is an active carbon monoxide violation from September 2024 that led to PG&E shutting off gas access throughout the building. Other current active violations from September-October 2024 include problems with heating systems, including a furnace issue, repairs needed for windows and showers, and concerns about fire safety equipment including smoke alarms and CO detectors.

Recent permits demonstrate some progress in safety upgrades, with a completed fire alarm system upgrade in 2024 costing $68,860, and an earlier seismic retrofit project filed in 2021 estimated at $171,000. The building has a history of fire safety concerns, with violations documented in 2019-2022 related to sprinklers, extinguishers, and alarm systems, though most of these have been resolved. Recent maintenance issues include interior surface problems, general dilapidation, and plumbing concerns such as a constantly running tub faucet.

The 2024 heating crisis appears to be the most urgent matter, given the high carbon monoxide levels reported, with one instance measuring 800 ppm. Historical maintenance records show previous improvements including window replacements in 1990 and a hot water boiler replacement in 2012. While some historical violations have been addressed, the recent cluster of active violations suggests current challenges with building maintenance and safety systems. The property has also incurred some penalties for various safety violations over the years, most recently for sleeping area requirements in late 2023.