Distressed Properties: Pathways of Decline and the Emergence of Public Safety Risk

The intent of this study is to develop an understanding of the forces and factors that trigger and accelerate the decline of residential properties in the City of Surrey, British Columbia (BC), and to create a framework for action that can stem such decline. Identifying residential properties trending toward a distressed state is essential given the effects of declining neighbourhoods and inherent risks to the community. There are numerous implications of declining properties and neighbourhood distress which include heightened fire risk, crime and disorder, and by-law violations at or near such places.

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