Alaska Stat. § 18.55. § 18.55.750
Municipality may repair, etc., dwellings unfit for habitation
Operative Text
When a municipality finds that a dwelling exists that is unfit for human habitation due to dilapidation, defects increasing the hazard of fire, accident, or other calamity, lack of ventilation, light or sanitary facilities, or another condition, including one of those set out in AS 18.55.860 that makes the dwelling unsafe or insanitary, or dangerous or detrimental to the health, safety, or morals, or otherwise inimical to the welfare of the residents of the municipality, the municipality may require or cause the repair, closing, or demolition or removal of the dwelling in the manner provided in AS 18.55.480 — 18.55.960.
Alaska Statute AS 18.55 § 18.55.750 authorizes municipalities to act against residential dwellings that are found unfit for human habitation. Unfitness can stem from a range of conditions, including structural deterioration, fire hazards, inadequate ventilation or light, poor sanitation, or any other condition deemed unsafe, unsanitary, or harmful to community welfare. When such a finding is made, the municipality has the power to require or carry out repair, closure, or even demolition and removal of the dwelling, following the procedures outlined in AS 18.55.480–18.55.960.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under AS 18.55 § 18.55.750, a municipality that identifies a dwelling as unfit for human habitation may compel the property owner to repair, close, or remove the structure. Operators who maintain properties in good structural condition, with adequate ventilation, lighting, and sanitary facilities, and who promptly address fire or safety hazards, are generally positioned to avoid municipal action under this provision. Keeping documentation of routine inspections and maintenance can help demonstrate ongoing compliance with habitability standards.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
AS 18.55 § 18.55.750 establishes that tenants living in a municipality have a governmental backstop when a dwelling is found to be unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise unfit for human habitation. If a tenant believes their dwelling suffers from serious defects—such as fire hazards, lack of ventilation, or poor sanitation—they may consider contacting their local municipal housing or code enforcement office to request an inspection under this provision. Tenant-rights organizations in Alaska can also help residents understand what options may be available when a dwelling is found to meet the threshold for municipal action.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 28, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
References In
Rules and statutes that cite this regulation