What Does It Mean if House Gets Condemned?
The term “condemned” refers to property that a government entity has determined to be no longer fit to live in because it violates local building codes. No one is allowed to live in a condemned building or use it unless all the cited problems are fixed. If the issues are not corrected, then the occupants of the house have to leave.
Why Does a House Get Condemned?
Here is a list of the most common reasons why houses get condemned:
- Infrastructure failure
- Black mold
- Improper ventilation
- Lack of proper sanitation systems
- No air conditioning
- Weather catastrophes and natural disasters that cause serious structural damages
- Extensive termite damage
- Using unsafe building materials
How to Save a Condemned House
In many cases, the condemned status of a house can be fixed. An owner has the right to negotiate a repair agreement or rehabilitation with the building authority. However, the owner’s success largely depends on the repair costs. If they exceed 50% of the value of the house, the city has the right to raze, or demolish, the property. If an owner disagrees with that and does not want to leave the house, it may be leveled at the owner’s expense.
However, many condemned buildings can be fixed and renovated, which allows their owners to reverse the condemned status. First, an owner must make all the required repairs, and then they need to pass a complete inspection. If the inspection is successful, a property may be deemed fit to inhabit.
The Code Requirements for Housing
In general, a house must provide the following to be considered livable:
- Heat
- Plumbing
- Safe electric outlets
- Light fixtures
- Ventilation
The owner or tenants (if the home is rented) must keep the house pest-free, clean, and in good structural condition.
Even Good Houses Can Get Condemned
Even a good house can get condemned if it is situated in a location designated for construction or public use. In this case, a home can be condemned and marked for demolition or modification to make way for public projects, such as a public facility, park, airport, or highway.
Can You Sell a Condemned House?
If you want to sell your condemned home, you have two options:
- Make the repairs to put your home in an acceptable condition. Once the house is renovated, you will have to go through a home inspection, after which a property may be declared habitable. After that, you have the right to list your property for sale like any other house.
- Sell your home to a home investor. This method does not require you to make any repairs or changes because home investors buy homes as-is. It is an easier way because it saves you money and time.
Sell Your Condemned Home Fast to We Buy Houses Oklahoma City
If your home in Oklahoma City was condemned and you want to sell it as soon as possible without investing any money in renovation and repairs, selling it to We Buy Houses Oklahoma City is your best solution. We are a team of local real estate investors who buy homes in any condition, including condemned properties. By working with us, you do not have to make any repairs or even clean your property — we will buy as-is. The sale process with us is easy and straightforward. All you need to do is go to our website, fill out the form, and wait for our phone call. We will contact you within 24 hours to schedule a viewing of your house. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to give us a call at 405-757-2507.