1620-1632 Laguna St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Nihonmachi Terrace, located at 1620-1632 Laguna Street in Lower Pacific Heights, is a 13-story multi-family residential building constructed in 1975 with 145 units. The property has experienced recurring water-related issues, with multiple leak repairs required between 2014-2016 on both the east and west elevations, costing approximately $1.2 million. More recently, in 2023-2024, there were several complaints and violations regarding water intrusion and mold issues, particularly affecting Unit 5.

The building has undergone various systems upgrades, including a 2024 notification system upgrade to meet city codes ($77,264), sound level verification in sleeping areas (2024), and multiple boiler-related permit issues in 2024 that were addressed within days of violation notices. The property has a history of fire safety concerns, with multiple violations recorded between 2023-2024 for sprinkler/standpipe systems and sleeping area requirements. Previous improvements include bathroom accessibility renovations (2018), installation of carbon dioxide detectors (2019), and various plumbing upgrades including boiler installation (2010).

The building's maintenance history shows regular investment in upgrading systems and addressing safety requirements, though some recent issues suggest ongoing challenges with water intrusion and fire safety compliance. Multiple building violations were efficiently resolved when addressed, as evidenced by quick abatement of several 2024 boiler permit violations within weeks of being cited. In 2023, there were tenant complaints regarding mold and construction work that extended beyond expected completion dates, indicating potential challenges with communication and project management during some renovations. The property's documented history shows a pattern of addressing major systems upgrades while periodically dealing with maintenance-related violations, particularly concerning water systems and fire safety equipment.