1542-1548 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94118

The four-unit, two-story multi-family residential building at 1542-1548 Balboa Street in the Central Richmond neighborhood, constructed in 1921, has experienced several significant issues over its history, particularly related to fire safety. The most substantial cluster of violations occurred in 2002, when multiple fire safety citations were issued, including problems with the fire escape drop ladder, fire sprinklers over garbage receptacles, and fire proofing materials - all of which were abated by October 30, 2002. Additional fire safety concerns emerged in 2011 and 2014, including the need for fire extinguishers and resolution of egress obstructions.

A reroofing project was permitted in 2001, and recent housing inspections have occurred in 2011, 2014, and most recently in December 2022, which noted issues with insects/rodents that were documented in the housing inspection services system. The most recent records indicate ongoing concerns with waste management, as evidenced by numerous 311 calls in January 2025 regarding garbage and debris, including multiple reports of overflowing city garbage cans and abandoned items. While these recent issues are primarily related to exterior waste management rather than building safety, they may impact resident convenience.

A malicious false fire alarm incident was also recorded, though it resulted in no civilian injuries. The building's documented violations and complaints have generally been addressed and resolved, with no active violations currently pending. The property has undergone regular routine inspections, though the frequency of fire safety violations, particularly in the 2000s, indicates that fire safety systems and maintenance has been a recurring area of focus throughout the building's recent history.