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Committee weighs inspection options after tenant in wheelchair reports roof leak on Columbus Street rental
Summary
Staff reported a Columbus Street rental where a tenant in a wheelchair said the roof leaks and the home has been without consistent utilities; the property owner (a trustee) said materials were available but declined to begin work. Committee discussed seeking an administrative warrant to inspect if access is denied.
Staff told the committee that a rental on Columbus Street has had recent siding removal, exposed OSB on the exterior and reported leaks; the tenant, who uses a wheelchair, had told staff there is a hole in the floor and a roof leak and that utilities had been off for weeks.
The city contacted the trustee associated with the property, who said he had materials but then later denied having them; staff said the trustee refused to start repairs after a short deadline. Inspectors noted the owner had removed the meter base from the house, leaving utilities disconnected, and said they have had only partial cooperation from the trustee.
Committee members discussed options for gaining access to inspect interior conditions; staff said they could request access to inspect, and if the owner refuses, they could pursue an administrative warrant to enter and inspect. Members expressed concern about evicting an occupant who says they have nowhere else to go and about the limits of local ordinances when adult tenants choose to remain in substandard conditions.
The committee directed staff to request permission to inspect the interior where possible, to document refusals, and to coordinate with counsel about seeking a warrant if access is denied.
Ending: Staff will seek to arrange access for an interior inspection and to report back on progress, including any counsel recommendations on a warrant.
