1650 California St, San Francisco, CA 94109

1650 California Street is a 25-unit, 3-story multi-family residential building located in San Francisco's Nob Hill neighborhood. Built in 1909, the property has undergone significant recent modifications, most notably the addition of multiple ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) in 2021, converting basement storage areas into habitable units A through G, each including new kitchens and bathrooms with associated electrical and plumbing installations. The building has also completed mandatory seismic retrofitting as a Tier 2 Soft Story building, with the City confirming work completion and issuance of the Certificate of Final Completion (CFC). Recent infrastructure improvements include comprehensive fire safety upgrades, with the installation of a new fire sprinkler system, addressable fire alarm system, and associated safety equipment in 2020-2021, although there have been recurring issues with alarm systems requiring inspection and correction from 2017 through 2023.

The building experienced several tenant complaints during construction in 2021 regarding noise disturbances, utility shut-offs, and safety concerns, including a significant complaint about potentially unsafe staircase modifications in 2022. Historical maintenance issues have included periodic problems with heating systems (notably a heating system failure in 2020), plumbing work including boiler replacements, and various building code compliance matters. The most recent fire safety violation from December 2023 regarding sleeping area requirements remains open as of January 2024, though many prior violations, including those related to alarm systems and exits, have been successfully abated. The property has maintained active compliance with major regulatory requirements, including the installation of new fire safety systems, seismic retrofitting, and conversion of vacant spaces into habitable units.

The building's recent history indicates a pattern of significant renovation work, particularly in 2019-2021, focusing on increasing unit density through ADU additions and improving safety systems. While there have been periodic maintenance and safety concerns, particularly regarding heating systems and fire safety equipment, these have generally been addressed through proper channels, with most violations being resolved upon correction. Recent 311 calls from late 2024 primarily concern sidewalk cleanliness and debris issues, which appear to be external to the building itself, focusing on public areas rather than building maintenance. The property has demonstrated ongoing investment in modernization and safety improvements, though with some accompanying disruption during construction periods and periodic maintenance challenges.