Receivership actions exist to restore safety where it has been compromised. In this case, a severely neglected residential property had deteriorated so significantly that traditional code enforcement remedies were no longer effective. Years of violations, unsafe living conditions, and persistent noncompliance created a serious hazard for both the occupants and the surrounding community. Despite the City’s repeated efforts to obtain voluntary correction, the property owners chose obstruction over cooperation, allowing dangerous conditions to worsen.
What began as a severely distressed property plagued by code violations and nuisance conditions evolved into an extraordinarily complex legal battle. The property owners employed obstructionist litigation tactics at every turn, attempting to delay and derail the City’s efforts to protect the community.
Health and Safety receivership before photos
Court-Supervised Transformation
With the Receiver in place, the property underwent a full and meticulous rehabilitation. Serviam supported the City in securing Court authority for the Receiver to overhaul the structure, eliminate long-standing violations, and fully abate nuisance conditions that had plagued the neighborhood for years.
The transformation was nothing short of dramatic. Unsafe rooms were rebuilt, hazardous conditions removed, and long-overdue repairs finally completed. What once posed a serious danger to public health now stands as a safe, compliant, and livable home.
As the rehabilitation progressed, Serviam also assisted the City in obtaining Court approval to transfer the revitalized property to a responsible new owner—ensuring long-term compliance and preventing a return to the prior conditions.
Health and Safety receivership After photos
Protecting the Community and Its Taxpayers
A key part of any successful receivership is ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on the public. In this case, the Court agreed entirely with the City’s position, and ordered full cost recovery. This outcome ensured that taxpayer dollars were protected and that enforcement efforts were funded by the responsible parties, not the community.
“This case exemplifies how effective legal action combined with dedicated public service can transform a community eyesore into a safe, well-maintained property—with full cost recovery. The community is safer tonight thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of City staff who refused to accept anything less than full accountability. Their commitment to protecting residents and preserving the integrity of the neighborhood made all the difference.” Rene Farjeat, Partner
A Safer City, A Stronger Neighborhood
The true success of this receivership extends far beyond the legal victories. A blighted and hazardous property has been transformed into a safe residence. A long-troubled neighborhood has regained peace and stability. And through persistence, collaboration, and skilled receivership advocacy, the City achieved a result that protects residents, preserves resources, and restores community confidence.
This case reflects exactly what receivership is designed to accomplish: rehabilitation, accountability, and lasting public safety. If you would like more information about this case or have questions about how receivership can support your agency’s code enforcement efforts, please contact Serviam attorney Rene Farjeat. Our team stands ready to assist public agencies in protecting their communities and achieving lasting compliance.
