Several residents in a property located in Winnipeg’s West Broadway neighborhood have raised concerns about unauthorized renovations that took place over the summer, leading some to vacate the premises. The new owner justifies the upgrades as necessary for the aging complex, while tenants like Mira Koop criticize the handling of the situation.
Koop, an art instructor and university student, highlights the abrupt changes that occurred after a new property management company, Chanden Homes Ltd., assumed control of the buildings at 640 and 644 Westminster Ave. Without prior notice, Koop returned home to find her appliances replaced and internet service disrupted, setting off a series of disruptive renovations in August and September.
The renovations, including work on fire exits and installation of an HVAC system, allegedly caused distress to tenants like Koop, who reported disturbances from ongoing construction and unauthorized entry by contractors. Other tenants also voiced grievances, such as unexpected visits from workers and proposed rent hikes exceeding provincial guidelines.
The owner of the property, Justin Beaulieu, asserts that upgrades are essential for the century-old building, despite the absence of recent construction permits. The contractor involved, Bosk Construction, believed the work did not require permits initially but later applied for them following a city inspector’s intervention.
In response to tenant complaints, the Residential Tenancies Branch was contacted but provided limited assistance, citing jurisdictional constraints on certain issues. Despite facing challenges, tenants like Koop emphasize the importance of transparency and respect from management, highlighting the need for improved communication to address residents’ concerns effectively.
