Vandals, insects target condemned historic home - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

Owners of a historic Chesterfield home say it has become a target of vagrants, termites and beetles. However, its historic designation means they can't tear it down. 

The home was purchased with a group's retirement fund and now they're afraid if something happens to the house, they could be sued, and their nest egg could crack.

The house is barely visible from Centralia Road and was once an old farmhouse. Now, according to it's owner, it's more like a flophouse.

Built in 1912, the structure has accrued $156,000 worth of damage, more than the home itself is worth. 

Since the home can't be insured, the group is afraid that if something happens inside or to the home, they'll be sued and their savings will be gone.

"We run the risk of kids getting in or somebody getting hurt," said Roger Habeck, a consultant from Facilitation Services who is working with the owners. "It could become a crack house and with those kind of issues, the owners are at risk."

The Historic Preservation Committee says it is just enforcing the County's ordinance. For now, the home sits on the market, where it will stay indefinitely.

The Historic Preservation Committee will meet again on July 26 to make a final recommendation whether the house can be demolished. The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors will have the final say after that.

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