Nicole Curtis Sued by Detroit Over Unrenovated Historic House

HGTV personality Nicole Curtis is facing a lawsuit from the city of Detroit for alleged failure to renovate an abandoned historic property. The lawsuit, filed on July 22, names Curtis, 49, and her company, Detroit Renovations LLC, accusing them of not undertaking any work on the house since she took ownership in 2021. A judge had previously ordered that renovations be completed to address the property's status as a "public nuisance" and a danger to the public. Curtis responded to the allegations on her Facebook account on August 2, asserting that her team was scheduled to commence work on the property the following morning. She emphasized that her motivation for undertaking the project is not financial gain but a personal passion for preserving historic homes from demolition or neglect by "flippers." Curtis stated her goal is to save these structures, viewing it as a passion rather than a job. She also reflected on her personal priorities, including being a mother and ensuring her legacy is defined by her role as a loving parent rather than her television career. The legal action was initiated in the Wayne County Circuit Court. Representatives for the city of Detroit have alleged that Curtis and Detroit Renovations LLC have not complied with the court's directive to renovate the home, which was deemed a hazard. The property in question has been identified as a significant concern due to its dilapidated state, posing potential risks to the surrounding community. The lawsuit seeks to compel compliance with the court order and address the ongoing public nuisance. Curtis's involvement with historic home renovation has been a central theme of her television work, particularly on the show "Rehab Addict." This legal challenge highlights the complexities and potential liabilities associated with undertaking large-scale historic property restoration projects, especially when court orders are involved. The city's action underscores its commitment to addressing blighted properties and ensuring public safety within its jurisdiction. The outcome of the lawsuit could have implications for future historic preservation efforts and the responsibilities of property owners undertaking such endeavors in Detroit.