Pennsylvania’s Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act – Act 135

March 20 2016

Pennsylvania’s Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act – Act 135

The lawyers at Orphanides & Toner LLP have a depth of experience litigating real estate conservatorship cases brought under Pennsylvania’s Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act, known as Act 135.  Act 135 empowers near neighbors, businesses, non-profit corporations, municipalities and school districts to address vacant derelict properties including residential, commercial or industrial buildings and vacant lots on which a building has been demolished that have been, for all intents and purposes, abandoned and are a blighting influence on the community.

Through Act 135, near neighbors and businesses, non-profit corporations, municipalities and school districts can petition the Court to appoint a conservator to take possession of the property.  The petitioning party must propose a conservator who is willing and able to rehabilitate the property under the supervision of the court. After completing the rehabilitation, the court will approve the out-sale of the property to a third-party at which time the conservator will be reimbursed his costs and expenses together with a conservator’s fee.

The lawyers at Orphanides & Toner LLP are experienced in defending against Act 135 actions on behalf of property owner as well as representing near neighbors, businesses, and non-profit corporations in bringing Act 135 actions against blighted properties in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. 

If you would like more information about Act 135 or your rights under the Act, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.