Abu Dhabi declares 274 abandoned buildings unfit for lodging

The abandoned structures were infested by insects and rodents, which the municipality said could pose a public health hazard.

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ABU DHABI // Abu Dhabi Municipality identified 274 abandoned buildings in the city and suburbs last year.

Inspectors declared them unfit for lodging, and sent violation tickets to 14 landlords, the municipality said on Wednesday.

It warned owners to “redress the status of these houses or remove them”, and reminded residents that the abandoned buildings are “threatening the lives, security and health of residents”.

The abandoned structures were infested by insects and rodents, which the municipality said could pose a public health hazard.

Forty-seven of the buildings were abandoned homes in Al Shahama, while five were public buildings and 49 were farm structures.

The municipality launched an inspection campaign as part of efforts to demolish old and abandoned buildings on Abu Dhabi Island and in Mohammed bin Zayed residential city, Khalifa City, Baniyas, Al Shamkha, Al Khatam, Al Wathba, Shakhbout City, Al Shawamekh, Al Nahda, Al Adlah and Al Mua’azaz.

Owners of the abandoned buildings were given a month to repair or demolish the structures.

Should they not comply, the municipality will demolish the buildings and incur all costs to owners.

Landlords also risk fines of up to Dh20,000 if they do not take care of abandoned buildings.

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