The Department of Housing distributes a list of CAPP eligible properties each quarter. This program gives property owners the opportunity to have their dilapidated, frame garages demolished at no cost. With the consent of the owner, the Department of Streets and Sanitation, in order to prevent rat harborage, will raze and remove frame garages that do not exceed one story in height. Buildings that are vacant, hazardous to the surrounding community and deteriorating due to an owner's lack of interest are characteristically identified as abandoned buildings. Although the City of Chicago identifies and demolishes dangerous abandoned buildings, demolition is just one small responsibility of the Department of Buildings.
Citizens assume a serious responsibility when they own a building.
One of the most important charges of the Buildings Department is to ensure that building owners across the City will make every effort to maintain their buildings and keep them safe. The demolition of abandoned buildings is accomplished through one of two programs within the Department of Buildings. Court-Ordered Demolition Filing suit in demolition court against building owners is the traditional means by which the City addresses abandoned buildings. In most cases, the City cannot demolish a building unless the court has ordered the demolition. The City becomes aware of most abandoned buildings through reports made by citizens or community groups.