Saint Paul demolition questioned by homeowner, case continues

Much like other type litigation, real estate litigation tries to determine what course of action should be taken in a particular situation. In real estate litigation cases, the courts may try to determine who has what rights to a particular piece of property. The court can often give some clarity on how a property owner can use the land, or if others can impede on a property owner’s rights.

However, in a recent case, the court was not given time to act before a property owner’s rights were challenged. In this case, Saint Paul tore down a house on the east side before the Minnesota Court of Appeals issued a ruling on the case.

The case was between a local man who lived on the property — located on Wells St. — for some time. While the man’s name was not on the deed to the property until recently, he was living and caring for the property. During his time at the property, the man collected various odds and ends to create a folk-art community park on the property.

The property drew the attention of city officials because of its disrepair. The city claimed that the house needed $50,000 in improvements in order to become habitable. The city claims that it tried in vain to bring the property up to code.

When these attempts were unsuccessful, the city obtained a demolition order. The man appealed this order. However, the city went forward with the demolition without waiting for an order from the appeals court. The man has vowed to continue the appeal which could leave the city responsible for an illegal demolition.

Real estate litigation involving a person’s property rights — like those in this case — should be taken seriously. Residential property, in particular, is usually a person’s largest asset. Taking aggressive legal steps to protect this asset is often necessary and prudent.

Pioneer Press, “Despite pending court case, St. Paul razes Arjo Adams’ house,” Frederick Melo, March 30, 2015 

Image Source: TwinCities.com