Where Are the Eyesores in Southampton?

An ill-managed, dilapidated home or building can be a source of unwanted attention in local communities. 

Through our "Empty in Southampton" and "Empty in Westhampton-Hampton Bays" series, Patch has taken a look at some of these blighted properties and asked residents about their potential future use. However, we are sure there are a few more "eyesores" out there that haven't been brought to our attention yet.

Contacting the Town of Southampton's building or code enforcement departments is a way residents can help take care of blighted properties. 

Under Southampton Town Code, unsafe buildings are addressed in Chapter 128 and property maintenance is addressed in Chapter 261.

Southampton town officials recognize that a blighted property can have a negative impact on surrounding properties, homes or business, and that they have a right to step in and change. In section 128-2 it reads: 

"A building or structure or equipment therein shall be deemed to be unsafe or unsanitary if found to be dangerous to life, health, property or safety of the public or occupants. Such condition may be as a result of a lack of provision of minimum safeguards to protect or warn occupants in the event of fire, or because such structure is unsanitary or vermin or rat infested, contains filth and contamination or lacks ventilation, illumination, sanitary or heating facilities or other essential equipment required by this article, or contains unsafe equipment or nonfunctioning equipment that is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, structurally unsafe or unsound that partial collapse is possible. For purposes of this chapter, 'structure' is anything constructed or erected on or under the ground or upon another structure or building, excluding walkways and driveways. 'Structure' includes the word 'building.' All such buildings and structures are hereby declared to be illegal and are prohibited and shall be abated by repair and rehabilitation or by demolition and removal in accordance with the procedures of this chapter."

Chapter 261-1 addresses property maintenance and reads:

"Consistent with the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the standards contained therein, it is hereby declared by the Town Board of the Town of Southampton that all improved properties shall be maintained in conformity with the provisions of this chapter so as to assure the desirable character of the property, to prevent blight and the spread thereof and to prevent hazards to the public health, safety and welfare."

On Monday, Councilman Chris Nuzzi and Councilwoman Christine Preston Scalera announced on violators of the town's rental law; the issue spotlights quality of life concerns.

For questions or concerns regarding the town's code, residents can call 631-283-6000.

Do you have any building or homes in your community that are eyesores that you think belong on the blighted buildings list? If so, tell us where in the comment section below.