LOS ANGELES : City to Demolish Badly Damaged Buildings for Free
In an attempt to eliminate hazards stemming from the Northridge earthquake, Los Angeles will demolish free of charge any red-tagged buildings that suffered more than 50% damage.
Gerald Takaki, a city building official, estimated that more than 400 apartment buildings, homes and commercial structures qualify for the free demolition. Officials expect the Federal Emergency Management Agency to compensate the city for the costs. The city carried out a similar program after the 1992 riots.
Owners wishing to have their buildings razed should contact any city Department of Building and Safety office or call (800) 890-0223.
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