1801 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109

The 5-unit, 2-story multi-family residential building at 1801 Larkin Street in Nob Hill, owned by Ma John K, was constructed in 1908 and has a complex history of maintenance and compliance issues. Most recently, in December 2024, the building has undergone reroofing work valued at $22,000, while several concerning issues persist. An active violation from 2018 (originally noted in 2007) remains unresolved, documenting the presence of an unauthorized fifth dwelling unit in the basement, along with serious safety concerns including unapproved plumbing and electrical work, inadequate fire separation, and lack of proper fire-rated materials.

The building's history shows periodic maintenance and renovation work, including various plumbing, electrical, and structural improvements from 2000-2001, though many of these permits expired without completion. The property has experienced multiple code compliance challenges, including a series of violations in 2012 related to fire safety and building maintenance, though most were eventually abated. There have been recurring issues with unauthorized modifications, as evidenced by a 2020 complaint about unpermitted construction between the building and fence.

The building's systems have undergone various upgrades over the years, including water main replacement and interior renovations, but the persistent issues regarding the illegal basement unit and associated code violations remain the most significant concern. Recent 311 calls from late 2024 have primarily concerned exterior maintenance issues like graffiti and debris, though these are not directly related to the building's habitability concerns. While there have been several fire department responses to the building, these were mostly for false alarms or routine assistance calls, with no reported injuries.