Dangerous buildings vary in intensity and type of damage, but share the unfortunate distinction of being the most severe type of residential code violations, and pose the most risk to the surrounding areas. If you believe such a building exists nearby, please contact 311.

The causes of dangerous buildings vary from neglect and abandonment, fires (intentional or accidental), out-of-code repairs that do not result in a safe structure, or catastrophic damage from storms or vehicle accidents. Whatever the cause, the City takes these dangerous structures very seriously and pursues owners to obtain compliance where possible; however if no steps are taken by the owner, the city will have a licensed contractor demolish the structure and bill the owner for the expense to the taxpayers.

All dangerous buildings are evaluated by inspectors according to several objective criteria, including age of the case, severity of the damage to the structure, proximity to parks, schools, and major streets, and likelihood of being repaired. The current list of dangerous buildings is available online, updated approximately weekly. If you have questions about the damage or progress on a particular case, please contact the office at (816) 513-9039.

Common conditions which will lead to a building being considered dangerous are listed under Section 56-532 of the Code of Ordinances:

• Exterior walls leaning or buckling;
• Building or any portion thereof is in danger of collapse;
• Building has been damaged by fire, wind, flood, or earthquake;
• Electrical, plumbing, or other mechanical systems have become dangerous or inoperable;
• Roof or walls have holes allowing the entry of weather;
• Foundation has settled or damaged.

Find out the difference between a dangerous building and a building with code violations.