647-649 Masonic Ave, San Francisco, CA 94117

The property at 647-649 Masonic Avenue is a two-unit, two-story multi-family residential building constructed in 1917, currently owned by Chen Jack Xuejie. The building has undergone significant renovations and modifications in recent years, with major work occurring between 2017 and 2023, including the addition of an ADU unit on the first floor with two bedrooms, bathroom, living room, and kitchen, valued at approximately $60,000. During this period, the property also received comprehensive upgrades including new fire sprinkler systems throughout the first floor (completed in 2023 at a cost of $32,000), electrical system improvements, and various interior remodels on both floors.

Recent concerns have been documented, including a violation filed in January 2024 regarding unpermitted replacement of three front windows, and reports from 2023 about decaying exterior wood trim and peeling paint potentially containing lead. The building's recent history shows active maintenance and upgrading of systems, including the installation of a new sprinkler monitoring system in October 2023, and various plumbing improvements such as the installation of a mini-split heat pump for the ADU unit. However, there have been multiple instances of work being performed without proper permits or inspections, as evidenced by several building complaints between 2017 and 2024.

An illegal basement unit behind the garage was reported in 2018 and remains an active concern. The property has experienced typical urban challenges in its vicinity, including parking issues and maintenance concerns such as graffiti, though these are generally unrelated to the building's structural or safety conditions. The extensive renovation work over recent years, particularly the addition of the ADU unit and updated safety systems, suggests a substantial investment in improving the property's condition and amenities.