Vacant structures are responsible for an increasing number of fire calls in Coquitlam and Chief Wade Pierlot said property owners should be responsible for the costs.
He told council Monday night the problem has been on the rise over the last three years due in large part to the amount of redevelopment in the area associated with the construction of the Evergreen Line. The proposed changes would save the city money and encourage property owners to tear down vacant structures as soon as possible, he added.
“Those types of vacant buildings cause us to respond more and more,” Pierlot said. “They usually fall into disrepair… It has been noticeable. It is something we have been monitoring for some time.”
He cited safety concerns as another reason for the changes. Many vacant buildings become occupied by homeless people and firefighters heading to a scene are often unsure whether they will be simply containing a blaze or rescuing people.
“That is one of the most important things we need to know when we approach a building,” he said. “We change our tactics if human lives are at risk.”
The city is also looking to expand its definition of a vacant structure to include any building where a demolition permit has been sought or where water, sewer, gas or electrical service have been terminated.
Mayor Richard Stewart said he supports the proposal and favours adding additional inspections at the cost of the property owner to ensure that buildings are secure. He added that a financial incentive is required to encourage people to demolish vacant buildings.
“We all know of those incidents where a house ends up terrorizing a neighbourhood because it is left derelict or vacant and should be torn down,” he said. “But there is no financial incentive to tear it down.”
The first three readings of the bylaw changes were carried unanimously during Monday’s council meeting. The issue will come back for final approval at a future council meeting.
@gmckennaTC
