Nassau Conty Rolls Out New System To Track, Clean Up 'Zombie Houses'

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Nassau County has unveiled a new system to identify, track and clean up hundreds of abandoned properties.

Many homes fell into disrepair due to the housing crisis and Hurricane Sandy.

Residents can now report suspected abandoned homes by sending an email to AbandonedProperties@nassaucountyny.gov or through the county's website here.

"Abandoned properties have become breeding grounds for mold and crime, and are a welcome mat for squatters," Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano said. "This new database will help maintain abandoned properties."

"I have heard time and time again from community members that abandoned homes plague their neighborhoods," said Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky. "Together, local governments can track these zombie properties and begin cleaning them up and restoring neighborhoods."

Officials say the database will help them track and clean up the properties sooner.