Residents of Dyker Heights say illegal home conversions are a growing problem in their neighborhood.

City Councilman Vincent Gentile joined other local officials and area residents Tuesday outside a home that officials say is an example of the problem.

The Department of Buildings issued a stop work order at the home on 78th Street. Officials say the developer was in the process of converting the two-family home into apartments for four or five families without approval.

The DOB also issued a violation for work without a permit. Officials say they believe the electric wiring is not installed properly.

Gentile says Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge are among the most plagued neighborhoods when it comes to illegal conversions. He is working on several bills to combat the spread of the conversions.