The Building and Standards Commission on Oct. 8 ordered the owner of Iconic at South First Apartments (4313–4315 S. First St.) to obtain permits and repair fire damage to the vacant multifamily complex within 45 days after staff documented hazardous, unsecured conditions at the site.

Inspector Eric Finn presented photos showing boarded and unmaintained windows, torn roof tarps exposing the roof, broken boards and vandalism. Finn said the property was registered as a repeat‑offender multifamily site in September 2024 and that inspections since Jan. 2, 2025 found open roof areas, unsecured units and recurring transient activity. He also said standing sewage had been observed in the parking lot, and that several electrical disconnects were present with exposed wiring.

A representative for the new owner — who said the lender had foreclosed on the prior owner — told the commission the new ownership group has engaged Gambit Construction as general contractor, expects design and permit submittal next week, and was arranging for security and boarding. The representative asked for leniency to submit permit applications; commissioners admitted owner exhibits documenting contractor engagement and security quotes.

Staff asked the commission to order the owner to finalize permits and correct violations within 45 days and to request inspections from Austin Development Services. Commissioner Lockhart moved to adopt staff’s findings and recommended order; Commissioner Francis seconded and the motion passed unanimously. The commission’s action preserves the city’s enforcement options, including penalties if the owner does not secure compliance within the required timeline.

The owner was instructed to coordinate with Inspector Finn and to keep the city updated on permit submittals; city staff confirmed the repeat‑offender designation will continue until the property meets compliance criteria or two years pass without qualifying violations.