What to do with run-down workshop on rental property

Question

I have a rental property that has a workshop in the yard.  It is basically dilapidated, with multiple leaks, rotting floor, doors don't latch, etc.

My question is what should I do with this building.  I don't want to spend money to fix it up.  Ideally it would be available for the tenants' use as a storage building.

I just don't want the new tenants to move in and then start demanding that the building be fixed up.

Should I padlock it and make it off-limits to the tenants?  Tear it down?

Thanks!!

Colleen F. · Answer

Look to your local building department for information. They should have something online on the town website.  If it is on your taxes at the current size and that dimension is above the size that you can build without a permit (usually you can build a smaller shed without a permit) then ask if it would be okay to rebuild.   If you know it is below the size for which you need a permit I would just rebuild.  Pay attention to setbacks, if it doesn't meet current setback to keep it you might be better off to repair. If it is not on your taxes you have an unpermitted structure so best bet is to tear it down.

Aside from a pre-fab shed which they sell everywhere consider prefabbing panels to repair/replace. You can do that off-site.  If you tear it down and can't rebuild use the slab for a small shed or make it patio if that makes sense.

Thomas S. · Answer

Tear it down. Replace it with a small storage shed from a building supply store. Your local codes will spell out what size of shed you can install without requiring a building permit.

Will King · Answer

Colleen,

Where could I find an answer to the question about zoning?  To answer your question, it is on a slab and I hadn't considered what to do with the slab.

Thanks!

Colleen F. · Answer

Before tearing it down check if it is space that could be rebuilt zoning wise.  Sometimes non-conforming uses/setbacks  can stay if repaired but cannot be rebuilt if they are removed.  If it is all the same and you have other storage you could padlock it but that assumes you want to repair at some point.  If you don't have other storage/garage definitely repair because the tenants will need it.  As a  shed it needs a roof and 4 walls. Is it on a foundation or slab?  What would you do with that if you tear it down?

Kelly N. · Answer

Fix it up or tear it down.  If you leave it, it is only going to get worse- it'll be an eyesore, attract critters, become a liability, etc.  If you allow them to store stuff in it and the roof leaks on their stuff, or critters get into it, it'll be a bigger problem for you.