5 Bird St, San Francisco, CA 94110

The 4-unit, 2-story multi-family residential building at 5 Bird Street in Mission Dolores, constructed in 1955, has experienced several significant maintenance and safety issues over the past few decades. Most notably, there are serious current concerns documented in 2024 regarding an unauthorized fifth dwelling unit, unapproved electrical and plumbing work, and questionable construction materials that are listed as an active violation under SFHC. The building has a recurring history of stairway maintenance issues, with multiple repair permits issued between 1982 and 2024, including the most recent repairs in 2024 to address exterior stair problems following complaints in early 2024.

Several complaints between 2011 and 2014 indicate unauthorized construction, particularly regarding deck installation and potential rear unit modifications. Historical records show a pattern of violations and repairs, including egress obstruction issues in 2001-2002 that were ultimately resolved. The property has also faced various maintenance challenges over the years, including plumbing issues, weatherproofing concerns, and garbage collection violations, all of which were addressed through subsequent repairs or compliance measures.

Recent activity on the property includes multiple stair repairs in 2024 costing $12,000, though the building's unauthorized dwelling unit status and related safety concerns remain unresolved as of October 2023. While there have been routine apartment inspections and various repair permits obtained over the years, the most pressing current issues involve potential building code violations related to unauthorized units and systems installed without proper permits. The building's maintenance history shows regular attention to staircase repairs, with permits issued approximately every 10-15 years for similar issues, and various improvements to meet code compliance requirements. Recent 311 calls primarily relate to parking issues outside the building, along with a tobacco-related service request in 2021 that was determined not to be a health code violation.