It could be a long and painful ordeal for displaced Westcourt Place residents.
Tenants are still trying to pick up the pieces following the November 12 fire at the downtown Windsor highrise. What was initially expected to be a short-term inconvenience for about 200 people may now last through the holidays and into 2020.
According to an update posted Wednesday morning on the official Westcourt Place Facebook page, building management is still trying to determine the extent of the damage to the building. A response team has been called in to assess the damage done to the tower's common areas and corridors, any mechanical, plumbing, or electrical systems, and the continuing effect on both residential and commercial tenants.
"While the assessment phase continues, early reports suggest the damage was significant, and that the necessary repairs will take many months requiring a prolonged dislocation for residents," read the Facebook post.
As a result, building management is encouraging displaced residents to consider alternative arrangements on a long-term basis, or even consider lease cancellation if permanent accommodations are found somewhere else.
"Please note that while we are not actively encouraging you to cancel your lease with us, we understand the challenges of the situation. We will honour any request for early termination should you wish to enter into a new lease, elsewhere," the post continued. "Anyone looking to terminate their lease is encouraged to discuss this with our property management team, and of course, seek independent legal advice, as necessary."
Rent cheques for the period between November 12 and November 30 will be refunded, and no rent will be accepted during the displacement.
Residents will still be given multiple opportunities to return to their units to collect personal belongings. The protocol is available by contacting the building management office.
The fire began in the underground parking structure of the building and spread to multiple parked vehicles, damaging the complex's electrical system. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit ordered a full evacuation due to the lack of hydro, water and heat. Partial utilities were restored within a few days.
Windsor Fire and Rescue listed the cause of the fire as accidental, caused by an electrical fault.
A class-action lawsuit, overseen by the law firm Strosberg Sasso Sutts LLP, has been filed to help residents and commercial tenants recoup financial losses.
