Foreclosed Property Registration

Overview

The City of Altoona requires the registration of foreclosed properties to address neighborhood deterioration and blight. This program aims to ensure that abandoned or distressed real estate is maintained securely and properly until it is transferred to a new owner.

Registration Requirements

To comply with the city's codes, the following information must be provided on the registration form:

• Registration Type: Indicate if this is an Initial or Renewal Registration.
• Property Information: The owner's name and the property address (City, State, Zip).
• Lending Information: Details for the lending institution, mortgagee, creditor, or owner. This includes a physical business address (no P. O. boxes), city, state, zip, phone number, and email.
• Preservation Company: If applicable, details for the company handling preservation (address, city, state, zip, phone, email).
• Local Maintenance Provider: Required if the above parties are located outside of Blair County. This includes contact name, title, business address, city, state, zip, phone, and email.
• Foreclosure Date: The date of the initial foreclosure filing.

Property Maintenance Expectations

Registered properties must adhere to strict maintenance standards:

• Grass and Weeds: Grass must be no higher than 8 inches at any time. The property must be free of noxious weeds, garbage, litter, and debris.
• Security: Premises must remain secure and locked. Broken windows or doors visible from the right-of-way may be boarded up with plywood on an emergency basis while arrangements are made for repairs. Otherwise, visible windows and doors must be in good repair and not boarded.
• Standing Water: All standing water, including that in swimming pools, must be eliminated.
• Code Compliance: All other applicable provisions of the International Property Maintenance Code remain in effect.

Fees and Penalties

• Registration Fee: A fee of $500. 00 must be included with the application.
• Duration: Mortgagees are responsible for paying fees and maintaining accurate information until the property is transferred to an unaffiliated third party.
• Inspections: Code enforcement may inspect the property to ensure compliance. Violations can result in citations or notices of violation.
• Enforcement: Failure to maintain the property according to city codes may lead to necessary action by the city to ensure compliance.

Submission

The completed registration form and fee should be returned to:

City of Altoona Department of Codes and Inspections 1301 12th Street Suite 103 Altoona, PA 16601