Alternatives to Demolition by Neglect

Raleigh Historic Development Commission (RHDC) and the City of Raleigh Department of Housing and Neighborhoods work together to preserve the city's history and public welfare. One tool available to achieve these goals is called Demolition by Neglect. This is a procedure in city code that includes steps to prevent a building from demolishing itself over time through owner neglect and deferred maintenance.

The Code Enforcement division implements specific Demolition by Neglect Procedures to evaluate deteriorating designated historic resources. Applicable standards for the determination of demolition by neglect are outlined in Raleigh's Unified Development Ordinance Article 11.8. Procedures for such determination include a public hearing, which provides property owners and/or parties of interest the opportunity to petition the City for a claim of undue economic hardship. In addition, the Code Enforcement division may issue an order to repair the property within a specified time, if such an order is warranted.

The City of Raleigh is committed to preserving its historic character while improving the living conditions for its citizens. The RHDC and the city's Department of Housing and Neighborhoods work in collaboration with property owners and/or parties in interest to simultaneously preserve historically-contributing properties and public safety.

More Information

• Demolition by Neglect Procedure
• Raleigh Unified Development Ordinance Article 11.8: Demolition By Neglect of Historic Landmarks and Structures Within Historic Overlay Districts  
• Demoltion by Neglect (National Trust for Historic Preservation)  

Neighborhood Watch

A deteriorating house is noticed first by its neighbors. Members of the community may be proactive in neighborhood preservation through their community associations. The City has specific procedures for citizens who want to prevent demolition by neglect.

Saved Through Demolition by Neglect Procedures

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