Several residents in a property located in Winnipeg’s West Broadway area have raised concerns about unauthorized construction activities that took place over the summer, leading to alleged violations of their privacy, rights, and safety. The tenants claim that the new owner of the building, Chanden Homes Ltd., initiated disruptive renovations without proper notice, causing distress and prompting some tenants, including Mira Koop, to vacate their units.
Koop, an art instructor and university student, highlighted multiple issues that arose following the change in ownership of the buildings at 640 and 644 Westminster Ave. She described the upheaval caused by continuous construction work, such as disturbances from demolition activities, unauthorized entry by contractors, and the removal of parts of her hallway ceiling without warning.
Furthermore, other tenants, including Madlen Bowen and Liam Simpson, expressed dissatisfaction with the sudden imposition of increased rent and utility costs by the new landlord. The tenants stated that their complaints to Chanden Homes were often disregarded, leading to a strained relationship with the management company.
In response to the tenants’ grievances, the new owner, Justin Beaulieu, emphasized the necessity of upgrading the aging property, citing the need for essential improvements due to the building’s age. However, city records indicate that no construction permits had been approved for the property since 2000.
Despite the challenges faced by the tenants, the contractor involved in the renovations, Bosk Construction, indicated they believed the work undertaken did not require permits initially. The owner, Adam Tougas, clarified that the construction activities were intended to address safety concerns and improve the overall condition of the building.
While the tenants sought assistance from the Residential Tenancies Branch regarding the unauthorized construction and rent increases, they expressed frustration over what they perceived as inadequate responses and lack of support from the regulatory body. The tenants highlighted their struggle to maintain a sense of home and stability amidst the ongoing disruptions caused by the renovations and management decisions.
In conclusion, the tenants emphasized the importance of transparency, communication, and respect from the property management in addressing their concerns and ensuring a conducive living environment for all residents.