City Council approves 30-day demolition timeline for property transfer to new owner

A San Antonio property owner is set to take significant steps toward demolishing a dilapidated house, following a recent meeting of the Building Standards Board. The owner, who is inheriting the property from her sister, is seeking to expedite the demolition process due to the house being deemed a public nuisance.

During the meeting, the owner explained that her sister, who is unable to manage the property after her husband’s deportation, is in the process of transferring ownership. The owner requested additional time to finalize the transfer and obtain the necessary permits for demolition. Board members discussed the timeline for demolition, emphasizing that while they could grant a 30-day period, the owner could potentially expedite the process by applying for the demolition permit herself.

The board acknowledged the complexities involved in the demolition process, including the need for a court order and the time required for appeals. They clarified that if the owner moves quickly to secure the permit, she could potentially begin demolition before the city intervenes.

In a decisive move, the board indicated their intent to order the demolition of the property, reinforcing the urgency of addressing the public safety issue posed by the structure. The owner was encouraged to collaborate with her sister to ensure all necessary paperwork is completed promptly, allowing her to take charge of the demolition process.

This decision marks a proactive approach by the Building Standards Board to tackle properties that pose risks to the community, while also providing a pathway for the new owner to reclaim and rebuild on the site.