Sunday, April 24, 2011

Unfavorable Engineering Report Citing Structural, Foundation Problems Leads To Midnight 'Eviction' For 300+ Condo Residents

In Fort McMurray, Alberta, The Edmonton Journal reports:

  • Seven Fort McMurray condominium complexes have been condemned and residents will not be allowed to return to pick up belongings. A letter to more than 300 residents [] said it was highly unlikely that anyone would be allowed to ever enter the buildings.
  • The decision came after an on-site remediation team of engineers and construction specialists found evidence of further structural deterioration, additional risks and fire code contraventions. In addition, the roofs have started to fail, the letter said.
  • This is an extremely dangerous environment,” Al Penner, spokesman for the Condominium Corp., said in the letter. “Do not consider attempting to access your unit to remove your treasured belongings.”
  • The 168-unit complex was evacuated in the late evening of March 11 after a structural engineering report issued earlier that day detailed the foundation problems. Penner [said] the structural problems will be exacerbated by the spring thaw. Plans for short-term stabilization were abandoned, he said.
  • It’s not yet clear if the company will tear down the buildings or if the city will order them demolished. The apartments on Penhorwood Street have had ongoing problems since they were built in 2004.
  • Residents were given brief access on March 16 to gather belongings from the building after signing liability waivers.

Source: Seven Fort McMurray condo complexes condemmed (Residents will not be able to pick up belongings).

See also, Why a young mom was evicted from her Fort McMurray condo at midnight (Structural concerns forced 300 people from their Fort Mac condos in March. How did this happen, who is at fault and what are the lessons for Alberta?).

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