A common problem we see across the region is a city’s frustration with commercial nuisance properties. When left in a neglected state, these substandard properties pose a risk to communities because of lingering or worsening hazardous conditions. They also become hotbeds for crime, attracting squatters and illegal activity that compromises feelings of safety and security.
Health & Safety Code § 17920.3
“Any building or portion thereof, regardless of zoning designation or approved uses of the building, including any dwelling unit, guestroom or suite of rooms, or the premises on which the same is located, in which there exists any of the following listed conditions to an extent that endangers the life, limb, health, property, safety, or welfare of the occupants of the building, nearby residents, or the public shall be deemed and hereby is declared to be a substandard building…”
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Senate Bill 1465 was introduced in September 2024 and includes amendments to California's Health and Safety Code, specifically Section 17920.3, which considers all building types and zoning designations when addressing a substandard property. These updates empower municipalities to take decisive action against substandard properties regardless of their approved use. It also grants extended jurisdiction for receivers to enforce and monitor compliance against properties in receivership.
What does this mean for commercial nuisance properties, specifically? It means that municipalities can use the weight of this newly amended California legislation to support their petitions for intervention, resulting in swifter action to secure and abate hazardous buildings.
What Constitutes a Substandard Commercial Property?
A building is classified as substandard when it presents conditions that endanger life, health, or overall safety. Inadequate sanitation, structural hazards, and fire hazards are some of the more common violations we see when abating commercial nuisance properties. Oftentimes, it’s a combination of all three of the above in addition to the presence of squatters and trespassers involved in illicit activities.
Abandoned or dilapidated warehouses, office spaces, office buildings, hospitals, churches, and industrial sites are all examples of commercial properties with different zoning designations where municipalities can lean on this new legislation to take swift action.
Use the Changes Introduced by SB1465 to Your Advantage
The amendments introduced by SB 1465 will make it easier to enforce accountability for blight, especially when it comes to commercial nuisance properties. This legislative change underscores the importance of maintaining safe environments while also holding property owners accountable for their responsibilities. At Griswold Law, we recognize the critical role this enhanced framework plays in receivership work. Our expertise in handling receivership for commercial nuisance properties enables us to navigate the complexities of the law effectively, making certain that properties are brought into compliance and the community's safety is prioritized.
We are committed to supporting municipalities and stakeholders in fostering safer, healthier communities throughout the region. Contact us to learn more.
