Several residents of a building in Winnipeg’s West Broadway district have expressed concerns about privacy infringements, rights violations, and safety risks due to unauthorized construction activities carried out over the summer. The tenants claim that the new owner, who took over the property in July, initiated disruptive renovations without proper notice or consideration for their well-being.
One former tenant, Mira Koop, highlighted her distressing experience, including sudden appliance replacements, intrusive entry by contractors, and disruptive construction work that significantly impacted her living conditions. Koop and other tenants reported instances of unauthorized entry into their units and disruptive construction activities that posed safety hazards.
In addition to the construction-related disruptions, some tenants faced lease changes under the new ownership, including proposed rent increases above the provincial guideline. The tenants expressed frustration over the lack of communication and responsiveness from the property management company, Chanden Homes Ltd., regarding their concerns and complaints.
The new owner, Justin Beaulieu, emphasized the necessity of upgrading the aging building but denied that work began before the official possession date. City records indicated a lack of approved construction permits for the property in recent years, prompting concerns about the legality of the renovation activities.
Despite the tenants’ efforts to seek assistance from the Residential Tenancies Branch, they received limited support and guidance in addressing the issues with the landlord. The tenants expressed a sense of disrespect and lack of consideration from the management, leading to a challenging and unsettling living environment.
The tenants’ plight underscores the importance of tenant rights and proper communication between landlords and tenants in ensuring a safe and respectful living environment. Efforts to hold property owners accountable for their actions and uphold tenant protections remain ongoing amidst the challenges faced by residents in the West Broadway community.