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Board orders demolition of fire-damaged house at 1538 West Creek Place; owners asked to show repair plan or face removal
Summary
Inspectors described extensive fire damage and structural collapse at 1538 West Creek Place. The Building Standards Board voted 6-0 to order demolition within 30 days unless a viable repair plan and financial documentation are presented.
San Antonio code enforcement staff recommended demolition of the fire-damaged house at 1538 West Creek Place after presenting photos that show fire damage, missing roof sections and interior collapse. The Building Standards Board voted 6-0 to order demolition within 30 days unless the owners demonstrate a repair plan and financial ability to complete work.
Christi Garza, Dangerous Premises official for the Development Services Department, told the board the property has been before the board previously, received 180 days for repairs after the May 2023 fire, and has not produced permits, engineering reports or proof of available financing. Staff noted that water and electrical service are not active and that the site contains debris and interior fire damage extending through multiple rooms.
Rachel Ramírez, speaking for owner Eugene Ramírez, said the family lived in the house and has been pursuing funding and contractors to do the roof first and then the interior repairs. Ramírez said she and the owner had applied to a city housing program and to external loan sources, that a $40,000 insurance check had been obtained in July 2023 and used for materials, and that contractor communication and medical emergencies had delayed work. The owner’s representative asked for an extension; staff told the owners the board’s typical practice is to permit a short extension only when accompanied by a bond or a clear timeline and financing documentation.
A representative for Carrington Mortgage appeared and said the lender’s interest is in making repairs rather than demolition. Board members discussed options and staff recommended a maximum extension of 60–90 days with a bond if the board believed repairs were viable; otherwise staff recommended demolition.
After discussion the board voted to order demolition within 30 days, to disconnect utilities and secure the property, with the motion recorded 6-0. Board members told the owners how to appeal the order and how to coordinate with staff on any documented, time-bound repair proposal and proof of funds if they wish to avoid demolition.
