279-289 Downey St, San Francisco, CA 94117

The 6-unit, 3-story multi-family residential building at 279-289 Downey Street in Buena Vista Park, built in 1907, has undergone significant improvements over the past several years, with the most critical being the completion of mandatory soft-story seismic retrofit work in 2022 at a cost of $100,000. The building's recent maintenance history shows attention to both structural and aesthetic improvements, including a roof replacement in 2020 ($25,000), electrical system upgrades in 2017 (installation of sub-panels for individual units), and various renovation projects completed in 2007.

The building experienced several significant violations in 2003 related to fire safety, lead hazards, and building maintenance, which were resolved by 2005, along with a notable mold issue in 2007 that required bathroom renovations. More recently, there have been multiple reports of illegal parking and waste management issues in the vicinity, as well as several noise complaints during major events in 2024, though these are external to the building itself. The property's maintenance record demonstrates ongoing investment in building safety and infrastructure, with completed permits showing legitimate work rather than temporary fixes.

The soft-story retrofit completion has brought the building into compliance with current seismic safety standards. While the building has a history of various maintenance issues, particularly in the early 2000s, these have been addressed through appropriate permits and inspections. Recent building activity has focused on completing previously started work and maintaining compliance with current building codes, indicating a proactive approach to property management.