The fight ended without fanfare. For 123 of the most heavily damaged structures, almost all in the Lower Ninth Ward, New Orleans officials have agreed to give seven to 10 days' notice before bulldozing. The city will publish an advertisement over three days in The Times-Picayune listing the addresses of the affected properties, will post a warning on the its Web site and will try to contact the owners by mail.

The warning will specify that officials intend to "demolish or haul away" the property. Owners have a right to challenge the demolitions in the seven- to 10-day window.

For 1,900 houses less seriously damaged, but still considered in imminent danger of collapse, the city will give 30 days' notice.