[quote=Rustico]I think it is funny when the neighbors flip out about other people’s property, when it is simply a matter of looks or style. Not fixing the roof seems to make no sense, but it is his property.[/quote]
Rustico, I agree but I’m sure you’re aware that “looks” or style” of the neighborhood matters a lot when an owner within it decides to cell.
In this neighborhood of large, “mid-century” ranches (acc to the news report), there is no HOA. I don’t know what recourse, if any, those neighbors who are complaining (who obviously take pride in their area) have, unless these shingles are blowing around and posting a safety hazard hitting people on the head, or the tarps keep blowing off and landing in neighbors lots, for instance. Where is the “damage” here (besides potential depressed values of neighboring properties)? Could any neighbor who recently sold PROVE he had to sell at a depressed price due to this the condition of this clown’s house and roof? And who was breaking their arm to sell in this depressed market, anyway? Further, would they WANT TO PURSUE this after they already got the h@ll out of there and moved on??
With no HOA in place, if a spec builder comes in, knocks down an old house and finishes half a *new* house on a lot and then goes bankrupt or a homeowner starts a room addition he can’t finish, the neighbors who don’t like looking at the eyesore are SOL. The city/county can fine the bankrupt seller for having to go in and board the place up to prevent squatting and mow the weeds down and then tack these services onto to the builder’s property tax payment (which may or may not get paid).
I understand the plight of the neighbors here but due to CA’s individual property rights, if an owner isn’t violating any zoning laws (i.e. storing a tractor on the front lawn or housing live chicken coops), then he can choose to be an a$$hole if he wants to. It isn’t endearing him to his neighbors but if he doesn’t care at 78, then he never will :={
