City to demolish historic Harlem townhouse after collapse, violations

The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, on July 7, filed a permit application for the demolition of a four-story townhouse, which was originally constructed in 1890, at 726 St. Nicholas Avenue in Central Harlem, Manhattan. The building is owned by Robert Lewis according to city records.

Earlier this year Patch reported that the Fire Department notified city inspectors that part of the building’s facade was crumbling, causing debris to fall. DOB inspectors issued full vacate orders along with violations for unpermitted work to the building’s interior.

After another incident of debris falling, the DOB issued an emergency order and instructed Lewis to remove any loose sections of the facade. When the owner failed to comply, the city had the work done. Now, the city has filed to demolish the building.

The plans, pre-filed on July 7, 2022, call for the demolition of a four-story building.

The project is described in the filings as: full demolition of four-story building to comply with NYC HPD emergency declaration.

Direct link to Acris document. LINK

Direct link to DOB document. LINK