494-498 8th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118

The three-story, four-unit multi-family residential building at 494-498 8th Avenue in the Inner Richmond, built in 1908, has experienced several concerning issues in recent years, particularly relating to building maintenance and safety hazards. Most notably, in 2023-2024, there have been multiple reports and complaints about building materials falling onto the sidewalk, with a serious incident in August 2023 involving debris with exposed nails and a reported sewage overflow incident during construction work.

The building has undergone various repairs and renovations over the years, including a significant kitchen renovation in 2005 (though the permit expired), reroofing work in 2011, and electrical upgrades in 2013 including the installation of GFI outlets and dishwasher-related electrical work. Historical building violations from 2002 included multiple safety issues such as the need for deadlatch locks, stair repairs, and fire extinguisher requirements, all of which were abated by June 2003. Recent maintenance activity includes a permit issued in June 2024 to repair dryrotted trim and address paint issues on street-facing areas, which carries a cost of $6,000.

The property has also generated numerous 311 calls in 2024 primarily related to garbage and debris on the property, sidewalk cleaning, and a sewage backup incident that was resolved. Between 2012-2015, there were several fire safety-related complaints regarding combustible materials and exit path obstructions, all of which were either corrected or closed. The building's maintenance record shows a pattern of addressing violations and maintenance issues, though recent complaints about falling building materials raise significant safety concerns that appear to be ongoing as of late 2024.