Substandard Building
Read the Code: SMC 17F.070.400 & .410. For further information refer to SMC Chapter 17F.070.
What is it?
In determining whether a building is a substandard or unfit for human habitation so as to require its owner to repair and rehabilitate the building, the building official and the hearing examiner consider the number and extent of the following factors:
- Dilapidation: Exterior decay, water damage.
- Structural defects: Foundation, wall and roof framing.
- Unsanitary conditions: Waste accumulation, health hazards.
- Defective/inoperable plumbing.
- Inadequate weatherproofing: Siding, roofing and glazing.
- No activated utility service for one year.
- Inoperable or inadequate heating system.
- Hazardous electrical conditions.
- Structure has been boarded more than one year and no approved rehabilitation plan.
- Structure used in the manufacture of methamphetamine or any other illegal drugs and has been condemned by the Spokane county health district and the owner has failed to abate the nuisance condition.
- Fire-damaged structure.
- Defects increasing the hazards of fire, accident or other calamity.
What it isn't
Substandard Buildings does not include buildings that are apparently unattractive; they must meet one or more of the above listed factors.
Building Official Process
- Substandard building complaints are turned in by citizens or agencies to Code Enforcement.
- A code officer investigates to see if the building meets the criteria SMC 17F.070.400 & .410.
- The Code Enforcement staff reviews the case and schedules a public hearing.
- The property owner presents the evidence at the hearing of why the building is not substandard/unfit or if they plan to rehabilitate or demolish the building.
- If the building is unfit a not demolished by the property owner, the City will complete the demolition at the owner's expense.
Building Official Hearing Agendas
2025
