What Is a Health & Safety Receivership? A Clear Guide for Property Owners and Attorneys

Apartment building in disrepair highlights safety concerns and potential legal issues for owners and tenants.

When a property falls into severe disrepair, faces code violations, or becomes unsafe for tenants, owners and attorneys often wonder what legal remedies are available. One effective solution is a Health & Safety Receivership, a specialized court appointment designed to restore habitability and compliance in distressed properties.

A Health & Safety Receivership involves the court appointing a neutral third-party receiver to take control of a property and address critical safety issues. This may include repairing structural damage, clearing debris, resolving code violations, and coordinating with local authorities to ensure compliance.

Property owners benefit by having an expert manage urgent repairs without the delays or disputes that often arise in ownership conflicts. Attorneys benefit because the process provides a clear, court-sanctioned path to restore safety and protect client interests.

JFA Receivership specialists conducting a strategic meeting to assess and develop rapid response plans for managing high-risk properties.

Common scenarios where Health & Safety Receiverships are used:

• Buildings with hazardous conditions, such as exposed wiring, mold, or structural instability

• Properties cited for multiple municipal code violations

• Multi-unit residences where tenants’ safety is at risk

• Properties abandoned by owners or mismanaged, creating liability concerns

At JFA Receivership, our specialists respond quickly to high-risk properties, providing rapid assessments and actionable plans. We guide owners, attorneys, and stakeholders through the receivership process, ensuring the property is safe, compliant, and ready for occupancy.

A Health & Safety Receivership is not just a legal formality—it’s a practical solution that restores safety, protects investments, and gives tenants and owners peace of mind.