In a recent inspection of a distressed property in San Antonio, officials uncovered alarming conditions that raise serious safety concerns. The property, spanning one acre, is home to approximately eight structures, with the main building showing significant signs of deterioration.

As inspectors approached the main structure, they noted that the windows had been boarded up, and security gates locked with chains posed egress issues. The foundation, a pier and beam type, is sinking into the ground, leading to visible separation between the original structure and an addition. This alarming shift has resulted in damage to the sill and other critical components of the building.

The rear elevation of the property revealed a covered porch with most of its corrugated metal roofing missing, contributing to the overall collapse and deterioration of the structure. Inside, the situation was equally dire. Water damage was evident throughout, with ceilings sagging and insulation falling from above. Tarps and plastic sheeting were hastily used to shield the interior from the elements, but they were failing to keep the water out.

In one room, inspectors found a concerning amount of stored items, which not only cluttered the space but also created further egress hazards. The floors throughout the building were described as spongy and wet, indicating severe water damage and structural instability. In the bathroom, the absence of a foundation was starkly visible, with rotting wood members and damaged flooring posing additional risks.

As the inspection continued, it became clear that the property’s condition was not just a matter of neglect but a pressing safety issue that could endanger anyone who might enter. The findings from this inspection will likely prompt further action from the San Antonio Building Standards Board, as they work to address the deteriorating state of this property and ensure the safety of the community.