An abandoned house on 3rd Avenue just off Grand Street has been frustrating neighbours, but it appears the District of Mission is now fully aware of the risk it poses.
The home has had a car parked in the driveway, but no one lives there and the car is not working. It has been broken into and is falling apart, neighbours say.
Mike Hamalainen and his fiancée live next door. They have called police and bylaw officials, as doors have been kicked in and people have entered the house, apparently sleeping in it.
“We repeatedly contacted the bylaws office. We have also left messages with the fire department with no return call. Right now, I fear for our safety. At the very least, this house is a fire hazard.
“There are trees that are approximately 40 feet tall on the property that overhang our house. If they were to catch fire, there is no doubt that our house will also go up in flames,” Hamalainen wrote in an email.
“Now that the people that have already broken into the house are aware of the ‘no consequences’ situation, I am sure they are letting all of their friends in their little community know about it. I am very sure that there will be more visits to the house next door,” he wrote.
Hamalainen told The Record that an assistant fire chief and a fire crew visited the home Thursday. He said they now are pushing for its demolition. He said power has been disconnected and he is hopeful it will not be standing much longer.