557 Franklin Avenue,

Brooklyn, NY 11238

Never had any issues. The property management was always quick to reply.

Nothing spectacular. A little loud and ugly corner.

Location, tenants, nearby block associations, and local politicians.

—Male tenant in the building is a sexual predator who exposes his genitals to women. He uses his girlfriend to send messages in her name to arrange a situation. He shows up with their baby or lurks outside of a door to convince people to open their door to him. Police and all tenants are aware of this individual. Property owner has refused to install cameras or start an eviction case.

—We have had three gas leaks in the building since 2020. The fire department has been here breaking down doors. The utility has told us issues with the gas work. The DOB has issued a violation but can’t inspect fully due to lack of access to the cellar.

—Maintenance is poor, janitorial service is going through the motions while mostly on their phone. There is no superintendent in the building.

—Brick exterior is cracked with water infiltration, just part of the unmaintained infrastructure.

—Roof has been advertised as an amenity, but it is actually covered with cell tower and gas powered equipment, so not a place for tenants. FDNY recorded a gas leak there in 2020.

—Roof and drains around the property have leaks and floods due to lack of maintenance. Also some bizarre plumbing issues in this building over the years, with waste water leaking or backing up into sinks and bathtubs.

—A gentrification campaign of construction and harassment (including break-ins & buyouts) forced many tenants out during 2012-2015. Some market rate apartments here should be stabilized.

—Property owner also engages financial abuse, credit abuse, overcharges, and pursued evictions during the pandemic against NY state law.

… And I have left out some things.

—It’s home but it can be difficult. Living with a sex predator in the building is really awful but we are looking out for each other since the owner won’t do anything.

—There is a tenant union devoted to this property owner, called Full Time Tenant Union. The property owner’s real name is Watermark Capital Group / Wolfe Landau.

—Overall I recommend caution and a very cheap rent if you live here.

None