Problem Properties In Edmonton

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The Problem Property Initiative

The Problem Property Initiative addresses highly problematic occupied and unoccupied properties in Edmonton that generate frequent and serious complaints and/or safety concerns. The coordinated efforts of multiple City departments, Alberta Health Services, the Edmonton Police Service, and the Government of Alberta present a united and consistent approach to the complex issues associated with problem properties.

Problem Property Initiative Overview

What are Problem Properties?

Problem properties are occupied or derelict unsecured properties that have a significant detrimental impact on the health and safety of those living in and/or working on the property as well as the surrounding community. These properties have a history of recurring violations relating to development permits, safety codes, nuisance conditions, public health, fire risk, or other illegal activity/criminal offences. These properties are complex in nature, often requiring the coordination of multiple agencies and social supports to address the above-noted challenges. These properties generate extraordinary demand on services and represent ongoing risk to the vibrancy of a neighbourhood.

Problem properties DO include those that:

Have a history of repeated or excessive neglect, disrepair and/or safety concerns
Are a significant public health risk and/or a higher risk for fires
Are abandoned and unsecured and may be accessible to the public
Are known for repeated, ongoing criminal activity (for example, drug trafficking or gang-related crime)
Have a history of deliberate violations and/or noncompliance by property owners or tenants
Require a coordinated response from several agencies (for example, various City departments, Edmonton Police Service, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, Alberta Health Services, Alberta Sheriffs)

Problem properties DO NOT include:

Properties with simple nuisances and occasional bylaw violations (for example, snow on sidewalks, couches on front lawns, nuisance odours, long grass, graffiti)
Properties where civil, non-criminal disputes take place (for example, with landlords, tenants, neighbours or contractors)
Properties in good condition that a community member finds “unattractive”

Options for Reporting a Problem Property

If the property is having a significant harmful impact on the surrounding area, poses a risk to tenants and surrounding residents, and/or has a recurring history of serious violations/complaints or noncompliance, please report it.

Complete the 311 Form

311 Reporting Tools

Contact 311 via phone or use our online reporting tool to report a problem property.

Report a Problem Property Confidentially

Reporting a Problem Property Confidentially

You can confidentially report a problem property using our online form.

Report a Vacant or Abandoned Building That is Unsecured

Reporting an Unsecured Vacant Property

Reduce fire risk by reporting a building that is vacant or abandoned, unsecured and accessible to the public.

Other Property Concerns: Who to Call and Contacts

If the property of concern does not fit the definition of a problem property, please use one of the reporting options below. If you wish to make a complaint, please contact the respective agency listed depending on the nature of the complaint.

Contacts

Emergency Services

If you or someone else is in danger.

Call: 911

Nuisance Property

If a property is showing signs of a serious disregard for general maintenance and upkeep.

Call: 311
City of Edmonton
Online: Nuisance Conditions
City of Edmonton

Take action: To file a complaint, call 311 or Contact 311 Online and click on the appropriate issue.

Residential Living Standards

If a rental property, business or public place does not appear to meet Alberta Health’s Minimum Housing and Health Standards.

Call: 780-735-1800
Call: 1-833-476-4733
Online: https://albertahealthservices.ca/eph/eph.aspx
Alberta Health Services, Environmental Public Health

Take action: To report concerns or request service from AHS-Environmental Public Health, visit ephisahs.albertahealthservices.ca/create-case and fill in the online form.

Safety Codes and/or Development Permits

If a property has concerns regarding safety code issues and/or development permits.

Call: 311
City of Edmonton
Online: 311.edmonton.ca/reports/list_services

Take action. To file a complaint, call 311 or Contact 311 Online and click on the appropriate issue.

Civil, Non-Criminal Disputes

If you are having a dispute with your landlord or tenant.
Call: 780-496-5959
Online: Support For Tenants
City of Edmonton, Tenant Support

Take action: Mediation services are available to assist in resolving tenancy disputes/issues. For advice and information, call 780-496-5959.

If you are having a dispute with a family member, neighbour, member of your community, people at work, or fellow participant in a group.

Call: 780-244-6752
Call: 780-423-0896 (Conflict Management & Support Hotline)
Online: https://www.mrjc.ca
Mediation and Restorative Justice Centre

Take action: Mediation services are available to assist in resolving family, community, and workplace disputes/issues. For advice and information, call 780-244-6752.

Unsecured Vacant Property

If a building is vacant or abandoned, unsecured and accessible to the public.

Call: 311
City of Edmonton
Online: Community Property Safety Team
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services

Take action: To report an unsecured vacant property, call 311 or email communitypropertysafetyteam@edmonton.ca

Crime, Trespassing and Property Disturbances

If you witness a crime at a property
If someone enters a person's private property without permission of the owner or his/her agent and without lawful authority
If nearby properties are continuously noisy or disruptive at night

Call: 911
Emergency Services, if you or someone else is in danger
Call: #377 or 780-423-4567
Edmonton Police non-emergency line
Online: edmontonpolice.ca/reportacrimeonline
Edmonton Police Report a Crime Online

Take action: Call and report the issue. Or report the crime or disturbances online.

If you suspect a neighbouring home of drug trafficking, prostitution, child exploitation or gang-related activity.

Call: 1-866-960-SCAN (7226)
Online: alberta.ca/report-suspicious-property.aspx
Alberta Sheriffs, Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN)

Take action: Make a complaint about a suspicious property or activity. Once an investigator is assigned, they will make contact.
Call: 780-414-GANG (4264)
Edmonton Police Gang Hotline
Call: #377 or 780-423-4567
Edmonton Police non-emergency line