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As many as 1 in 16 properties in West Virginia are vacant or abandoned. Neglected properties deter economic development, increase crime, and create safety hazards. At the same time, neglected properties represent an opportunity for community revitalization. The quantity of dilapidated properties can seem overwhelming, but West Virginia communities are sharing and developing innovative strategies to successfully tackle these problem properties. In order to further enable revitalization efforts, this toolkit details legal strategies to address neglected properties.

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A common thread that runs through all communities in West Virginia is the dilapidated properties within them. The spread of blight results in reduced property values, public safety hazards, and can be a barrier to economic development. Neglected properties affect not only a property owner, but the surrounding property owners, and the community as a whole.

However, it is apparent that many communities have a desire to address these neglected properties. In the last few years, communities have been trying both traditional and innovative strategies to address neglected properties with promising results.

—Ann Worley, President of the Board of the Municipal League

From Liability to Viability

The From Liability to Viability Toolkit presents effective legal tools currently available to help local governments in West Virginia convert dilapidated properties to productive use.