159 Clara St, San Francisco, CA 94107

The 3-unit, 2-story multi-family residential building at 159 Clara St, owned by the Woo Family Trust 1990, has a documented history of maintenance and safety concerns dating back to its 1906 construction. Most recently, in September 2024, multiple repairs were undertaken, including replacement of the front wooden gate and stairs railing, as well as repairs to wooden steps, suggesting ongoing maintenance of access infrastructure. However, a building complaint was filed in August 2024 regarding unpermitted work and early morning construction activity in the rear building, which was addressed by September 2024.

More seriously, between 2023-2024, the building experienced multiple fire code violations, including issues with the sprinkler/standpipe systems, for which violations were issued in July 2024, and multiple violations in May 2023 regarding fire extinguishers, electrical conditions, and general permit requirements. The building has also faced structural concerns, with a February 2020 complaint reporting leaning structure and unsafe living conditions, though this complaint's current status is not indicated. A series of 311 calls in early 2025 primarily relate to external encampments and garbage issues in the surrounding area, rather than directly involving the building itself. The property's maintenance history shows attention to stairway safety, with repairs documented in 2002, 2024, and ongoing work as of September 2024.

The building has experienced some basic safety incidents requiring fire department response, though none resulted in civilian injuries. Notably, there have been no recorded fire incidents involving actual fires, with most responses relating to false alarms, elevator rescues, and system checks. The property has maintained an active permit record, with recent work being conducted under proper permits, though the August 2024 complaint suggests potential concerns about strict compliance with permit requirements. The building's geographic location appears to face external challenges as evidenced by the numerous 311 calls regarding encampments and street cleaning needs in the vicinity during 2025, though these external issues do not directly reflect on the building's internal conditions or management.