946 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94109

946 Geary Street is a three-story, 10-unit multi-family residential building constructed in 1916, currently owned by Walter F. III & Barbara J. Re. The building has undergone several significant modifications and faced numerous challenges in recent years. Most notably, there was a concerning period of vacancy and maintenance issues documented in 2022-2023, including reports of no heat, exposed wiring, hot water problems, and a vacant structure.

Recent concerns include multiple fire code violations as of March 2024, blocked exits, and garbage/infestation issues observed in late 2024. The building has a documented history of maintenance and compliance issues, particularly regarding its fire alarm system, with violations noted in 2016-2024, and HVAC challenges including a 2013 boiler replacement and subsequent violations. Between 2019-2020, there were multiple tenant complaints regarding basic utilities and maintenance problems, including electrical issues, broken fixtures, and plumbing concerns. The property has undergone some improvements, including kitchen and bathroom remodels in 2019, a seismic retrofit in 2005, and various safety-related upgrades in response to violations. Historical records show periods of inadequate maintenance that required multiple violation notices to resolve, particularly during 2010-2012, when multiple fire safety issues were identified, including problems with emergency lighting, fire escapes, and security systems.

The building's condition appears to have significantly deteriorated during 2022-2023, with multiple complaints about basic utilities and building systems, though some permits suggest ongoing renovation efforts, including a proposed addition of two units on the first floor filed in 2020. More recently, there have been ongoing concerns about sanitation and safety, with multiple 311 calls regarding garbage, debris, and pest control in 2024. The building has experienced several fire alarm and smoke detector activations, though these have generally been unintentional with no reported injuries. Recent fire code violations from March 2024 related to exits and emergency lighting suggest ongoing safety compliance challenges. The property's maintenance history shows a pattern of responding to violations and complaints, though there are concerns about the frequency and timing of these responses, particularly during periods of significant tenant complaints.