If the owner of a building or structure that has been condemned as unsafe pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 160D-1119 fails to take prompt corrective action, the local inspector shall give written notice, by certified mail to the owner’s last known address or by personal service, of all of the following:

(1)        That the building or structure is in a condition that appears to meet one or more of the following conditions:

a.         Constitutes a fire or safety hazard.

b.         Is dangerous to life, health, or other property.

c.         Is likely to cause or contribute to blight, disease, vagrancy, or danger to children.

d.         Has a tendency to attract persons intent on criminal activities or other activities that would constitute a public nuisance.

(2)        That an administrative hearing will be held before the inspector at a designated place and time, not later than 10 days after the date of the notice, at which time the owner will be entitled to be heard in person or by counsel and to present arguments and evidence pertaining to the matter.

(3)        That following the hearing, the inspector may issue such order to repair, close, vacate, or demolish the building or structure as appears appropriate.

If the name or whereabouts of the owner cannot, after due diligence, be discovered, the notice shall be considered properly and adequately served if a copy is posted on the outside of the building or structure in question at least 10 days prior to the hearing and a notice of the hearing is published in a newspaper having general circulation in the local government‘s area of jurisdiction at least once not later than one week prior to the hearing. ?(2019-111, s. 2.4; 2020-3, s. 4.33(a); 2020-25, ss. 33, 51(a), (b), (d).)