New Westminster tenants issued emergency evacuation order due to unsafe conditions

Tenants of a New Westminster apartment building have been ordered to evacuate their homes immediately, due to poor maintenance and neglect.

On behalf of the Provincial Fire Commissioner, New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services issued an emergency evacuation order for the 11 tenants of the multi-unit building at 325 Agnes Street on Friday.

A lack of a functioning fire alarm system, stable fire escape, and implements to prevent the rapid spread of fire are among the issues the building is facing, as listed by the city. Additionally, the electrical and gas systems no longer meet safety standards, it adds.

According to the city and fire services, multiple attempts have been made over the past 18 months to have the landlord address dangerous conditions in the building. These actions included revoking the landlord’s business license in July 2022 and issuing fines totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

However, the city says the owner has remained “non-cooperative.”

Now, the city says the situation has gotten so bad it’s being forced to take immediate action to protect the lives of the tenants.

City staff say they’re currently working closely with provincial organizations and non-profits to find alternate housing or shelter arrangements for the tenants.

Until the property owner addresses the building’s safety deficiencies, and obtains a business license, the city says the building will be vacant, disconnected from utilities, and secured.

-With files from Cole Schisler