In many cities, leaving a house vacant just means mowing the lawn once a month. In Indianapolis, it means you are at risk of significant fines. Marion County uses one of the most aggressive tools in the country to punish owners of vacant homes: The Indiana Unsafe Building Law (IC 36-7-9).
Understanding Chapter 537 & The Fee Risks
Under Indianapolis Municipal Code Chapter 537, owners of vacant structures are generally required to register with the city. Failure to comply, or having a building flagged by an inspector, can lead to escalating costs. It often starts with a "Repair Order."
- Civil Penalties: Fines can range from $2,500 to $5,000 for non-compliance, subject to administrative hearings.
- Tax Lien: Unpaid fines are frequently certified as special assessments on your property taxes.
- Potential Liability: In severe cases, the city may pursue owners for demolition costs.
We pay back taxes and civil penalties at closing.
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
Homebound Offers is a real estate investment company. We are principal buyers, not attorneys, financial advisors, or licensed real estate agents. The information presented in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.
Real estate laws, including eviction, probate, and foreclosure statutes, vary by location and are subject to judicial interpretation. Every property situation is unique. The next step for any legal action should always be to contact a qualified attorney to review your specific circumstances. If you need a referral to a local professional, we may be able to provide a list of independent contacts.