A condemned property or building is one that a municipality (city or town) has closed, seized, or placed restrictions on because it is determined to be unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise a risk to public health and safety.
The circumstances under which municipalities may condemn properties are usually described in local or municipal ordinances.
In Texas, the condemnation of property or buildings is governed by a combination of state statutes and local municipal ordinances. Municipalities have the authority to condemn properties that are deemed unsafe, unsanitary, or pose a risk to public health and safety. This is typically done through the enforcement of building codes and health and safety standards. The Texas Local Government Code provides the general framework for municipalities to establish procedures for dealing with dangerous structures, including the ability to require repairs, vacate orders, or demolition of the property. Property owners are usually given notice and an opportunity to remedy the violations before the property is condemned. If the owner fails to comply, the municipality may take further action, which could include fines, placing a lien on the property, or even forced demolition at the owner's expense. Each municipality in Texas may have specific ordinances that detail the process and standards for condemnation, so it is important to refer to local laws for precise regulations.
