Housing Under Pressure
In July 2022, residents of the three-year-old Magdalena apartment complex were told they’d be evicted to allow for major structural repairs. How could this development go so wrong, and what does it say about the housing crisis facing our communities? Reporters Shalu Mehta and Jacqueline Ronson are investigating. Subscribe to our Cowichan Valley newsletters to stay in the loop.
North Cowichan requests independent safety review of Magdalena building
The municipality will also request evidence of third-party reviews of structural designs for large developments, before they are built.
Magdalena tenants seek safety assurances and compensation as evictions loom
Residents are considering legal action after years of issues in the North Cowichan apartment complex.
Magdalena apartment complex needs $1.8 million in repairs: documents
Just three years after construction, the building’s footings, framing and main floor need major reinforcement, and plumbing must be replaced.
Developer sues engineers over structural issues at Magdalena apartment complex
Residents at the Magdalena say they’ve dealt with maintenance disruptions and security issues for over a year.
Developer seeks to evict all tenants at North Cowichan rental complex, citing structural defects
“It’s a mess. People are frustrated,” says tenant Jess Phair.
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