Commission rejects ADU conversion at troubled Nob Hill building after tenants's safety complaints

The Planning Commission voted to take public‑initiated discretionary review and disapprove permit applications that would convert basement storage into two accessory dwelling units at 1440 Clay Street, a 15‑unit Nob Hill building, after tenants presented a lengthy list of unresolved health, safety and maintenance problems.

Tenants at 1440 Clay detailed alleged chronic issues including water leaks, mold, pigeon infestations, broken stair treads, malfunctioning stoves and expired elevator permits. They argued the owner, Centron Management Group, had not remedied repeated complaints and that adding two ADUs would stress building services and risks displacement should structural or system problems arise during excavation and construction. Tenants provided inspection records and code‑violation notices as evidence.

Planning staff noted that the project would require relocation of trash/recycling handling and that the applicant had revised plans in response to early concerns. But commissioners focused on the pattern of deferred maintenance and the risks of starting work that could force occupant displacement. After extended public testimony the commission voted unanimously to deny the permit application under discretionary review, directing the owner to resolve outstanding building‑safety and maintenance issues before pursuing new units.

Next steps: The commission advised tenants and staff to coordinate with DBI and other enforcement bodies to document and remediate hazards; the developer may resubmit after addressing violations and providing stronger evidence that the building can support additional units without tenant displacement.