Unsafe Structures (City)

Under the authority of IC 36-7-9 and Section 150.70 of the City of Huntington Code of Ordinances, the City has enacted an unsafe building law. The Department, through the Building Commissioner, is responsible for the administration and enforcement of unsafe structures. The unsafe building law is a tool used by the City to maintain safe building conditions, eliminate blight and preserve property values.

State law defines an Unsafe Building as any structure that is:

1. In an impaired structural condition that makes it unsafe to a person or property.

2. A fire hazard.

3. A hazard to the public health.

4. A public nuisance.

5. Dangerous to a person or property because of a violation of a statute or ordinance concerning building condition or maintenance. 

6. Vacant or blighted and not maintained in a manner that would allow human habitation, occupancy, or use under the requirements of a statute or an ordinance.

In addition to the conditions above, the City of Huntington has adopted additional criteria (§150.70-F) concerning standards for building condition or maintenance. 

The Department investigates complaints filed by the general public concerning unsafe structures, conducts inspections and issues orders of enforcement. The City of Huntington Board of Public Works and Safety is the designated hearing authority. When the Building Commissioner issues an order of enforcement and that order is upheld by the Board of Public Works and Safety, property owners are given time to correct the deficiencies as outlined in the order. If a property owner fails to make necessary repairs in a timely fashion, the City may assess penalties for non-compliance, arrange for repairs or even demolish the structure at the owners cost. 

To submit an unsafe structure complaint, please complete the form below.

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