638-642 South Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110

The three-unit multi-family residential building at 638-642 South Van Ness Avenue in the Inner Mission, owned by Rodemiro & Isabel Arguello, has experienced several maintenance and safety issues since its construction in 1911. The most significant cluster of violations occurred in early 2002, when multiple issues were documented including inadequate heat, mold and mildew, damaged walls, security concerns with entry doors, interior surface problems, and inadequate fire safety measures. These violations were all officially abated by June 2003.

The building underwent several maintenance improvements including window replacements in 2002 and a roof replacement in 1997, along with electrical work for a furnace replacement in 2003. More recent history shows a pattern of maintenance and safety concerns. A 2005 complaint noted blocked emergency exits and fire alarms, though this was quickly resolved.

Routine inspections were conducted in 2008 and 2015, though the results were not specified. Earlier complaints from the 1990s highlighted issues with water damage, window leaks, damaged flooring, and various infrastructure problems including inoperative door locks and ventilation issues. The property has also faced exterior challenges in recent years, with multiple 311 calls in 2023-2024 primarily related to sidewalk cleaning and graffiti, indicating ongoing maintenance needs for the building's exterior and surrounding area. The most recent building permits and violations suggest that while some historical issues have been addressed, the building continues to require regular maintenance and oversight to address both interior and exterior concerns.