New Hanover County proposes new inspection framework for older buildings

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) –Earlier this week, New Hanover County Commissioners discussed a proposed framework for a new periodic inspection program aimed at addressing maintenance issues in older commercial buildings in downtown Wilmington.

The proposal comes in light of recent incidents, including the façade collapse at Taco Baby, ceiling failures at Brand Engine, and scaffolding problems at Memory Lane Comics.

Commissioner Rob Zapple emphasizes that the plan is a proactive measure for public safety:

“This is not another hyper inspection; this is to look for things that could quickly or, if they aren’t already, become hazardous to people inside the building or outside the building.”

To prevent such incidents, the proposal recommends implementing periodic inspections.

The primary focus will be on commercial buildings located in the historic district and those over 100 years old.

Some business owners worry the policy could lead to unannounced visits from county inspectors. Zapple clarifies,

“There is no intent to go in and say, ‘Oh look, you have to bring it up to modern standards,’ etc. It’s quite the opposite; we are looking for obvious hazards to the occupants or to the general public.”

The plan also proposes funding inspections and inspector salaries through “fees.”

Joe Apkarian, a small business owner downtown, questions who will ultimately bear these costs:

“You know, you see there are fees—where are those fees coming from, and who are they going to be put on? Again, if there is not an incentive for these landlords to do the right thing for the right reasons, then guess who is going to pay? The business owner.”

Apkarian is not against the proposed policy but is cautious about how it will be implemented:

“The intent is good… but how is the execution going to be?”

If you have questions or concerns about the plans, Commissioner Zapple is open to hearing them.

You can find New Hanover Commissioners’ contacts here.