438-442 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118

The three-story mixed-use building at 438-442 Clement Street, owned by Alfonso Chang and dating back to 1900, contains four residential units above a retail space. The property has undergone several significant changes over the past 15 years, with the most recent being the installation of a sign for "Clement Jewelry & Gifts" in early 2024 as part of an $3,200 awning amnesty program. There have been multiple concerns regarding unpermitted modifications to the storefront area, including unauthorized installation of roll-down security doors and an awning, which resulted in several building violations and complaints throughout 2022-2023 that remain active.

The building experienced a notable incident in 2018 when a car collided with the storefront, causing damage that required replacement of safety glass and minor stucco repairs. The property has a history of maintenance issues, including repeated graffiti incidents (most recently reported in September 2023), illegal postings, and various sign-related violations. Several permits have been properly filed and completed over the years, including infrastructure improvements such as bathroom additions in 2009 (including plumbing and electrical work), storefront glass replacement in 2018, and roof replacement in 2007.

The building has also faced regulatory scrutiny, with several planning records related to unauthorized signage changes, though some of these matters have been resolved or closed. Fire safety concerns were raised in 2019 regarding blocked exits and other conditions, though these were either found to have no merit or were promptly corrected. A water leak through a ceiling fixture was documented in 1996, representing one of the oldest issues on record.