Update: Homeowner told their home isn't safe responds with second opinion

by Barry Davis / KENS 5

kens5.com

Posted on February 27, 2014 at 6:01 PM

SAN ANTONIO -- Paul Farias says he feels a little better about his chances now. The city had given Farias 48 hours to vacate his home, because they said it wasn't safe. An engineer Farias hired to inspect his house indicates it's not as bad as the city inspector said.

Farias saID he has been trying to make repairs but the city has been blocking his permit applications. The foundation needs work, as does the roof and some electrical wiring. But that work can not be done without permits.

The city says it will take the case before the Building Standards Board March 6 and let them make the final decision. Farias intends to take the engineers report with him and, if need be, the engineer himself. Farias said he just wants a little time to make the repairs.

The city said it notified Farias of the problems last June and he hasn't made the repairs yet. Things didn't start to move until the threat of eviction came.

Farias said the only reason they hadn't made the improvements was because of money.

Both sides will have an opportunity to make their case before the city board March 6. The board will then decide whether to allow Farias and his family to make the needed repairs to bring his home up to code, or whether to move forward with plans to have the home demolished.

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Update: Homeowner told their home isn't safe responds with second opinion