Successfully Tackling Problem Properties

Problem properties — seriously neglected and unsafe residential properties —  generate complaints and pose risks to community safety. Problem properties negatively impact neighbours' sense of safety and strain municipal resources with recurring incidents (such as fires, safety code violations, public health risks, nuisance conditions, etc.). 

In 2020–2021 in central Edmonton alone, there were 429 fires on vacant structures, for example. In response to these rising challenges and the growing number of problem properties, in 2022, Council took action with the Approach to Problem Properties strategy, as well as a centralized office for the Problem Property Initiative – launched in January 2023, and a pilot of the Community Property Safety Team.

Now, 2 years in, let’s take a look at the results. 

• 14,000+ inspections at over 1,800 properties

• 389 demolished properties (and 227 have since been redeveloped or have submitted applications for development)

• 366 vacant properties secured

• 379 property clean ups coordinated 

• 1.63 million pounds of debris and hazardous waste removed

• 31% decrease in number of fires reducing risks to citizens and first responders

The teams and resources with the Problem Properties Initiative are applied city-wide.

Additionally, and based on data-driven planning, a dedicated team is available to focus on neighbourhoods with the highest number of extreme and chronic nuisance properties.

At its core, the key to this work is community safety — and that means the strategy and approach was designed and implemented through a human-centered process. Since these situations are complex, tackling issues with problem properties involves collaboration between ten agencies, including City departments, Edmonton Police Service, Alberta Health Services, and three Government of Alberta areas.

Derelict Properties & Taxes

As you can see, the Problem Properties Initiative is getting results, but we didn’t stop there. In January 2024, Edmonton was the first city in Canada to implement a tax subclass for derelict properties, starting in mature neighbourhoods.

These property owners are charged triple the residential tax rate until they secure, demolish, and clean up their properties that have fallen into disrepair.

Of the homes assessed as derelict last year, 30% have been demolished or remediated! That’s showing that the higher tax class is motivating property owners to clean things up. Other municipalities are also taking notice — since Edmonton implemented the tax, Athabasca, Ponoka, and Westaskiwin have followed suit. Edmonton is yet again leading the way! 

I’ve received feedback from community members who say they’re seeing a positive impact in residential areas.  Looking ahead, we need to figure out a plan for non-residential (eg; commercial and/or industrial) derelict properties. It’s not as straightforward due to legislation, but we are moving in the right direction as we gain more information.

I’m proud of the action we’ve taken to address problem properties and support community safety, knowing how impactful these changes truly are! I look forward to seeing this good work continue.

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To report a problem property, call 311 or submit a form here. For general inquiries or to engage directly with the Problem Property Initiative email problemproperties@edmonton.ca. Want to stay in-the-loop with this work? There’s a Problem Properties Newsletter sign up here.

Link to video on Erin’s community safety blog series.