What action is a code official required to take if a property owner fails to secure the premises within the specified time frame?

In situations where a property owner fails to secure their premises within the specified time frame, the code official is required to take action to protect public safety and welfare. Causing the premises to be secured is a necessary step to mitigate any risks associated with unsecured properties, such as vandalism, trespassing, or potential hazards that could affect the surrounding community.

This action underscores the importance of upholding residential and public safety standards as outlined in the International Property Maintenance Code. It provides a proactive approach to ensure that properties do not become liabilities or safety concerns. The involvement of the code official is crucial in these circumstances as it ensures that actions taken are compliant with local regulations, thus enforcing maintenance and safety codes effectively.

Although notifying the owner, issuing a fine, or beginning eviction proceedings may be valid responses in different contexts, they do not address the immediate necessity of securing the property. The role of the code official prioritizes the safety of the community by taking direct and immediate action to resolve the issue at hand.