It is hereby declared that insanitary and unsafe buildings, dwellings, and structures of all types and descriptions used for human habitation exist in the incorporated municipalities of this state and that such insanitary and unsafe conditions arise from obsolescence, poor repair, maintenance, and the overcrowding and use of such buildings, dwellings, and structures used for human habitation and occupancy; that such conditions are often compounded by inadequate provisions for light and air, insufficient protection against fire hazards, lack of living space and overcrowding and lack of heating, plumbing, and other facilities; that such insanitary and unsafe buildings, dwellings, and structures used for human habitation and occupancy constitute a danger to the health, safety, morals, welfare, well-being, and comfort of the inhabitants and general public in such incorporated municipalities; and, that such conditions cause an increase in and spread of disease and crime and are damaging and injurious to the inhabitants and general public of such incorporated municipalities.
Ala. Code § 11-53-1 (1975)