55 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102

The 31-unit, 4-story multi-family residential building at 55 Polk Street, built in 1917 and currently owned by Jnl Polk Lp, has experienced several significant building and fire safety issues in recent years. Most notably, there is currently an active cluster of fire safety violations as of 2024, including issues with the high-rise sprinkler system, standpipe maintenance, fire door functionality, alarm system maintenance, and sleeping area requirements. The building has undergone various improvements and repairs over the years, including a 2023 fire alarm system upgrade costing $36,600 to comply with current fire code requirements.

In 2018, unit 104 underwent a kitchen and bathroom remodel, though this work was preceded by a complaint regarding construction damage to a neighboring unit. The property has faced multiple fire safety concerns throughout 2023-2024, with several violations being issued and subsequently corrected but others remaining open as of late 2024. Historical records show some recurring maintenance and safety pattern, including the need to restore historical fire exit paths in 2016 and various plumbing and electrical updates.

The building experienced multiple violations in 2009 related to water damage, interior surface maintenance, and smoke detector functionality, though these were abated by 2011. More recent history (2016-2024) indicates ongoing fire alarm system issues, with multiple violations and malfunctioning alarm system activations being recorded. While many repair and improvement projects have been successfully completed, including kitchen renovations and various system upgrades, the persistent nature of fire safety violations suggests continuing challenges with maintaining current safety standards. Recent fire violations (as of 2024) specifically cite issues with the alarm system, sleeping area requirements, standpipe maintenance, and sprinkler system compliance, indicating these areas require ongoing attention and maintenance.