Fixing a condemned house is no small task. When a property in Oklahoma is deemed unfit for habitation, it usually means extensive repairs are needed to bring it back to livable condition. Whether you’ve inherited a condemned property or your investment property has fallen into disrepair, understanding the process and associated costs is essential before diving into renovations. Keep reading as we explain what you need to know about fixing a condemned house and explore the other options available to homeowners.
Understanding the Basics of a Condemned House
A house is condemned when local authorities declare it unsafe for occupancy due to severe structural damage, code violations, or health hazards. This designation can result from neglect, natural disasters, or other factors that cause the property to deteriorate. Once a house is condemned, it cannot be legally inhabited until it has been repaired and passes a reinspection by local building officials.
The Process of Fixing a Condemned House
- Obtain a Copy of the Condemnation Report
The first step in fixing a condemned house is to understand the specific reasons for its condemnation. Your local building department can provide a copy of the condemnation report, which will outline the violations and required repairs to bring the property up to code. - Hire Qualified Professionals
Fixing a condemned house often requires the expertise of multiple professionals, including:- Structural Engineers: To assess and design solutions for any structural issues.
- Contractors: To carry out the necessary repairs, such as roofing, plumbing, electrical work, and more.
- Architects: If major renovations or redesigns are needed.
- Inspectors: To ensure that all repairs meet local building codes.
- It’s important to hire licensed and experienced professionals to avoid further complications down the line.
- Obtain Necessary Permits
Before starting any work, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits from the local building department. These permits ensure that the work is being done according to code and will be inspected at various stages. Working without permits can result in fines and further delays. - Make the Required Repairs
The scope of repairs will depend on the issues identified in the condemnation report. Common repairs for condemned houses include:- Structural Repairs: Fixing foundations, walls, or roofs that are damaged or unstable.
- Electrical and Plumbing Updates: Replacing outdated or dangerous systems to meet modern safety standards.
- Mold and Asbestos Removal: Addressing health hazards that make the property unsafe for occupancy.
- Pest Control: Eradicating infestations that contribute to the property’s decline.
- Depending on the extent of the damage, these repairs can be extensive and time-consuming.
- Schedule Reinspections
After completing the repairs, you’ll need to schedule a reinspection with the local building department. An inspector will review the work to ensure it meets all code requirements. If the repairs are satisfactory, the condemnation order will be lifted, and the property will be considered safe for occupancy.
Costs Associated with Fixing a Condemned House
The cost of fixing a condemned house can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage, the size of the property, and the local cost of labor and materials. Here’s a rough breakdown of potential costs:
- Structural Repairs: $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the severity of the damage.
- Electrical and Plumbing Updates: $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the scope of work needed.
- Roofing Repairs: $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the roof and the materials used.
- Mold and Asbestos Removal: $2,000 to $20,000, depending on the extent of the contamination.
- General Contractor Fees: 10% to 20% of the total project cost, which can add up significantly on larger projects.
It’s important to budget carefully and be prepared for unexpected costs that can arise during the renovation process.
Other Options for Homeowners
Fixing a condemned house is a significant undertaking, both financially and logistically. If the costs and complexities seem overwhelming, there are alternative options to consider:
- Sell to a Direct Buyer
If you’re not able to take on the repairs, selling the property directly to a real estate investor like Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses can be an ideal solution. Direct buyers specialize in purchasing homes in any condition, including condemned properties. This allows you to sell the house as-is without investing time and money into repairs. Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses offers a straightforward, hassle-free process and can provide a fair cash offer for your home. - Sell to a Fix-and-Flip Buyer
Another option is to sell to a fix-and-flip buyer who specializes in renovating and reselling distressed properties. While the offer may be lower due to the necessary repairs, this can still be a viable way to offload a condemned property without dealing with the renovation process yourself. - Consider Donating the Property
If the property holds little value after repair costs are considered, donating it to a nonprofit organization might be an option. Some organizations may accept the property and take on the repairs themselves, allowing you to avoid the burden of renovation while potentially receiving a tax deduction.
Fixing a condemned house in Oklahoma is a complex and often costly endeavor, requiring careful planning, skilled professionals, and a significant investment of time and money. However, for some homeowners, it may be the right path to restoring a property’s value and making it habitable once again.
If the prospect of renovating a condemned house seems daunting, remember that you have other options. Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses is here to help by offering a quick and easy solution—purchasing your home as-is, regardless of its condition. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in selling your condemned property and move forward confidently. (918) 324-3848