21 Columbia Square St, San Francisco, CA 94103

The 50-unit apartment complex at 21 Columbia Square, owned by Mercy Housing California 67 and constructed in 1994, has undergone significant safety and infrastructure improvements over recent years. The building has an active fire safety monitoring history, with multiple fire alarm and sprinkler system upgrades completed between 2017-2019, including a comprehensive fire alarm system upgrade in 2017 costing $60,000, and ongoing fire alarm system-related violations as recent as 2024. The building's plumbing infrastructure has seen substantial investment, with the installation of new boilers and water heating systems in 2017-2019, including the recent installation of a new 200-gallon tank in July 2019.

The property has maintained active compliance with building codes, though it experienced two boiler permit-related violations in 2021 that were resolved by March 2022. Recent maintenance and safety upgrades have included improvements to individual unit systems, such as bathroom exhaust fans and LED lighting upgrades throughout the building. However, there have been recurring issues with the building's alarm and fire safety systems, as evidenced by multiple fire complaints and violations between 2023-2024 related to sleeping area requirements and alarm systems.

The building's location has experienced typical urban challenges as evidenced by recent 311 calls regarding garbage and debris in the surrounding area. Historical records show the building was previously cited in 2011 for various maintenance issues, including smoke enclosure door closer repairs and water heater concerns, which were subsequently abated. The most recent building activity includes responses to fire safety inspections and ongoing maintenance of the building's complex systems, with particular attention needed for the recent fire safety violations that remain open as of October 2023.