Montgomery County residents can now report vacant properties through an on-line reporting system. Vacant properties can pose a number of potential problems for neighborhoods. In an attempt to maintain the health, safety and quality of Montgomery County neighborhoods, the County’s Department of Housing and Community Affairs is seeking help in identifying properties that present a blighting influence on neighborhoods, particularly those vacant and abandoned properties in the foreclosure process.

Residents who suspect that a neighborhood property is vacant and not being maintained properly by the owner or a representative of the owner (e.g. realtor) can complete and submit a “Report a Vacant Property” form by going to www.montgomerycountymd.gov and clicking on the “I Want To” link. From there, click on “File a Complaint” and then click on “Vacant Property.”

DHCA will inspect the property to determine if the property is properly secured and if there are any housing code violations. Violations include, but are not limited to, a vacant property or one where the grass is more than 12 inches high and/or the accumulation of trash and debris. Properties in violation of the County housing code are sent a notice to correct the violation. If violations for tall grass are not corrected within 10 days, the inspector will start legal action and a contractor will be hired to complete the work, with the owner billed for the service. Time required for correcting other violations ranges from 24 hours for those affecting life safety issues to 30 days for other non-safety issues.

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Media Contact: Mary Anderson, 240-777-6534
Program Contact: Department of Housing and Community Affairs, 240-777-3785