475 Kent Avenue "Illegal Apartments"

475 Kent Avenue

The Williamsburg from the long forgotten past (of 8 years ago) used to be a destination for artist and musician types who sought a unique and gritty lofted space to call home at a discounted rate. In today's Williamsburg, that's mostly vanished, however, there are a few fringe buildings that endure and deserve mentioning. 

475 Kent Street is an eleven-story converted factory building that has anywhere between 100-300 residents who are living in what has been deemed an illegal conversion by city officials. It has been written up for a number of violations over the years from inoperable sprinkler systems to blocked exits to illegal grain storage silos and a factory in the basement of the building (!!). Apparently the owner of the building, Nachman Brach, chose not to fully stop his commercial use of the building when he began renting the apartments. Due to the commercial status of the building, tenants have had to pay about $300 per month for their own satellite dish, which pepper the building on all sides.

On a cold winter day a few years ago, the FDNY raided the building and forced all residents to evacuate. They had to stay in hotels and with friends and family for a few months until they were allowed to move back in. This is an example of the great risks involved with finding a unique space. Before signing on any lease, renters should do their homework and make sure their building is up to code and safe.