1638-1640 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117

The three-story multi-family residential building at 1638-1640 Haight Street, built in 1905, contains 5 units and includes commercial space. The property has undergone several significant improvements in recent years, demonstrating proactive maintenance and safety upgrades. Notably, in 2020, the building received comprehensive accessibility improvements totaling $49,500, including doorway upgrades, new bathrooms, and an inclined platform lift, along with associated electrical and plumbing work.

In 2019, a voluntary soft-story retrofit was completed for $150,000, enhancing the building's seismic resilience with structural upgrades including plywood shearwalls and steel framing. Historical records show the building has consistently addressed maintenance needs, including reroofing in 2001, exhaust hood replacement in 1995, and installation of a fire suppression system (though this permit is listed as expired). The building has experienced some operational challenges, particularly with the commercial space, which have been addressed through various improvements. In 2015-2016, residents reported concerns about an excessively noisy exhaust fan, which was apparently relocated based on a 2003 permit showing counter/bar relocation and receptacle installation.

Some past building violations related to fire safety were recorded in 2005 regarding egress obstruction and combustible storage, but these were promptly abated within approximately one month. The property has undergone routine inspections over the years, with records showing consistent compliance with housing codes. Recent activity at the property (2023-2024) has primarily involved external maintenance issues like graffiti removal and sidewalk cleaning, which were addressed by city services. Planning records indicate various approved changes to the property, including conversion of commercial space to residential use and construction of outdoor dining facilities, suggesting ongoing adaptation to neighborhood needs.