A contractor hired by the city began cleaning a Kaimuki home which neighbors have been complaining about for years.

The city hired Pacific Junk Removal to clear the property at 1115 2nd Ave., after obtaining a court order to clean the house and lot, which has been in violation of city building codes since 2008.

The owner, Laura Matsuzaki, has accumulated more than $200,000 in city fines.

Pacific Junk Removal submitted the lowest bid of $9,492 and is expected to complete the work by the end of the week.

Workers will clear the yard of junk and enter the 2,400 square foot home and remove items that are a fire or health hazard.

A July 9  Circuit Court order on granted the city a preliminary injunction and a warrant to enter the dilapidated and rodent-infested property to remove trash, furniture and other debris that has accumulated.

Neighbors have complained not just about the trash, but about the rats and roaches, and the smell of urine, feces and vagrants who have occupied the property.