850 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94115

850 Broderick Street, a 47-unit multi-family residential building constructed in 2011, has experienced ongoing elevator-related issues that significantly impact resident safety and accessibility. Most recently, in December 2024, there was a serious incident involving a wheelchair-bound tenant who was unable to evacuate due to elevator failure, resulting in an open fire violation regarding elevator maintenance. This followed a pattern of elevator problems, including multiple complaints in 2017 about inconsistent operation and after-hours shutdowns, and a 2013 complaint about the lack of an on-site manager.

The building, which serves as group housing for formerly homeless seniors, underwent substantial safety infrastructure installation during its construction, including fire sprinkler systems, standpipes, and an underground fire service installation in 2008-2009. While many of these systems have been properly maintained and show as "Complete," there have been several fire safety violations in recent years, including an open violation from October 2023 relating to sleeping area requirements. The property management has generally addressed fire safety complaints in a timely manner, with previous violations for alarm systems, sprinklers, and extinguishers being corrected within weeks of inspection. Recent building improvements include a 2024 upgrade to the fire alarm communication system, converting to a new cellular communicator, though this was performed without a proper permit, resulting in a violation notice.

The building's construction history is notable for its transition from demolishing a 1948 structure with 16 vacant units to creating a modern facility with 47 bedrooms, completed in 2011. Throughout its history, the property has maintained active compliance with major building codes and safety systems, though the recurring elevator issues present a significant concern for resident safety and accessibility. Recent 311 calls primarily relate to exterior maintenance and parking issues, suggesting these are more prevalent than internal building concerns. The property has undergone regular fire safety inspections, with most violations being promptly addressed, except for recent elevator and sleeping area issues which remain open as of October 2024.