Construction is ongoing at Birchwood Terrace on Winnipeg’s Portage Avenue as almost 200 tenants remain evacuated due to structural unsoundness. The residents are facing confusion, overwhelm, and uncertainty about when they can return to their homes. Many are struggling financially and emotionally, with seniors, single parents, and fixed-income individuals among them. Former residents like Des Kappel are living in hotels, unsure of when they’ll be able to retrieve their belongings and rebuild their lives. Nearby residents like Ron Krug are also concerned about the evacuation and lack of information about the situation.
The City of Winnipeg has provided little information regarding the status of Birchwood Terrace and the evacuation watch for properties on Assiniboine Crescent. Former residents are in need of urgent support, including mental health services, home care, and financial assistance. The Public Interest Law Centre has highlighted the limitations of compensation under the Residential Tenancies Act in Manitoba, stating that some losses may not be recouped. Former tenants are encouraged to contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for assistance with questions and concerns.
For those looking to recover financial losses, receipts and documentation of possessions in their apartments will be necessary to demonstrate the extent of the loss. The lawyer involved suggests that financial losses may be assessed on a case-by-case basis, but compensation may be limited by the Residential Tenancies Act. Former resident Des Kappel reflects on his situation, expressing disbelief at his homelessness and frustration at the lack of insurance coverage for the situation. Issues such as mouse infestations, burst pipes, and falling flooring have added to the challenges faced by former residents.
Concerns have been raised about other properties in the area owned by Ladco Company Limited, with worries about their structural integrity. The City of Winnipeg clarified that property owners are responsible for ensuring the maintenance and safety of their buildings. This statement raises questions about the oversight of aged buildings and the potential risks they pose to residents. With ongoing uncertainty and challenges faced by former Birchwood Terrace residents, the need for support, information, and solutions is clear. The situation highlights the complexities of issues related to housing, tenant rights, and property maintenance in Winnipeg.
