Ask the Expert

A.

Actually, I have seen this problem many times and it is sad that some people have no concern for the upkeep of their property. I even started a local civic organization called Oceanside Pride and we confronted property owners, politely, asking them to help improve the neighborhood.

If your neighbor refuses, contact the local building inspector and send petitions to your local town councilmember. From the sound of it, you should have no problem getting neighbors to join with you. Your area inspector and town councilmember are there to help in matters like this. I spoke with two different inspectors about your problem and they tried to identify which property it was. From the sound of it, they deal with issues like this quite often.

The property must be safe, and protected from hazards like the ones you describe. A car used for storage purposes poses a safety hazard being a fuel storage facility, if not in use and is a violation if the car does not have plates or is unregistered. Ponds may qualify as pools or excavations undertaken without the benefit of permit. If it appears that the pipes rocks, gravel etc., are part of a home-operated business, then the owner must get approval for use as a commercial property from the Zoning Board of your community. You mention "tearing down" fences, lighting projects, etc., which they are allowed to do, unless it changes a code condition, such as limiting access to a pool.

Your area inspector can advise you. Just make sure to document the problems and be reasonable. Have a good holiday.

Readers are encouraged to send questions to: HERALD Homes, 379 Central Avenue, P.O. Box 220, Lawrence, N.Y. 11559-0220Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.