Blog | 16 April 2025
How do you find abandoned properties? A practical guide for municipal use
Identifying abandoned properties is an essential step in responsible urban planning for local governments. Vacant or neglected buildings can pose safety risks, decrease property values, and delay neighborhood renewal. For local governments and planning departments, tracking abandoned properties is not just useful, it's necessary.
Why cities need to track abandoned properties
For municipalities it’s a must-know which properties are inactive, unoccupied, or at risk of long-term vacancy. These locations often affect:
- Public safety: Fire hazards, squatting, or vandalism
- Health concerns: Structural decay or pests
- Zoning and redevelopment: Delayed progress due to unclear ownership
- Housing strategies: Missed opportunities for affordable housing
By identifying abandoned properties early, cities can plan better infrastructure, direct resources effectively, and support community goals.
How to find abandoned houses as a municipality
There are several data-driven methods to identify abandoned or vacant homes and commercial properties. Each method helps build a reliable inventory that supports policy decisions.
1. Use visual data and street-level imagery
High-resolution street imagery tools, such as panoramic photography and 360° views with the Street Smart tool from Cyclomedia, allow municipalities to remotely inspect neighborhoods. This is particularly useful in areas where field visits are difficult or time-consuming.
Cities can assess property conditions by observing signs like:
- Boarded-up windows or doors
- Overgrown yards or uncollected mail
- Structural damage
- Absence of lighting or movement
Combined with geospatial data, visual inspections help prioritize areas for further follow-up.
2. Cross-check utility usage data
Utility companies often have information about inactive water, gas, or electricity accounts. Extended non-usage can indicate abandonment.
Municipalities can request access (where permitted) to:
- Water usage records
- Electricity shut-offs
- Gas service suspensions
This data should always be verified visually or through contact with property owners when possible.
3. Analyze tax and ownership records
Properties with unpaid property taxes, legal disputes, or unclear ownership may be vacant or neglected. County and local records often provide insight into:
- Delinquent property taxes
- Probate or foreclosure status
- Unclaimed estates
This method is especially useful for long-term planning and redevelopment strategy.
4. Integrate citizen reports and field input
Some cities allow residents or inspectors to report suspected vacant homes through apps or forms. These reports are helpful for:
- Spotting properties that may not be in public databases
- Validating other data sources
- Noting recent changes (e.g., fire damage, sudden vacancy)
Use these inputs alongside official records to avoid errors or outdated information.
5. Apply smart mapping and data layering
Modern GIS systems allow municipalities to combine multiple data sources, visual data, tax status, inspection records, and citizen input into one map. This provides a clear, up-to-date overview of property status across a city.
Adding heatmaps, filters, and zoning overlays helps prioritize actions for:
- Code enforcement
- Redevelopment zones
Public safety planning