In some markets, it’s apparently a difficult time to be a landlord. Biddeford’s code enforcement office is coming upon an increasing number of empty apartment buildings ”“ some in foreclosure, others simply abandoned.

The trend shows how high unemployment can deflate the value of rental housing. Anyone who loses a job has an immediate incentive to consider moving in with friends, relatives or otherwise reducing the cost of shelter.

But the growing number of vacant buildings in Biddeford is more than an economic indicator. It is a situation that is creating public safety hazards, according to Codes Enforcement Officer Roby Fecteau.

Squatters sometimes move in, increasing the risk of fire. In unheated buildings, undrained pipes burst during freezing weather, causing heavy damage. Structurally unsound buildings are a danger to firefighters, and anyone else who might have occasion to enter.

The city must do what it can to minimize risks associated with vacant and abandoned buildings. Fecteau is urging an ordinance requiring property owners to secure any of their buildings that become vacant, boarding up and turning off utilities.

The plan also may expand upon the Fire Department’s practice of placing caution signs on dangerous buildings.

Work is just getting underway on this proposal and banks and property owners will no doubt want to comment on the details. Even though it may be costly to owners and difficult to enforce, an ordinance like this will protect emergency personnel and the public.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com or City Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski at kristenm@journaltribune.com.