MELFORT — Melfort’s Diefenbaker Place tenants have been able to return to their units or have been moved to other undamaged units, following a December fire, from which the extent of the damage remains under investigation.
According to Roger Parenteau, Executive Director of Housing Operations with Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, the damage from the fire on Dec. 18 is primarily due to water from the building's fire suppression system.
Due to anticipated repairs, there will be a number of tenants who will be required to relocate either to other vacant units in the building or to other social housing units in Melfort.
Diefenbaker Place is run by the Melfort Housing Authority, featuring two towers with 123 units. The facility offers housing to senior citizens or physically disabled persons capable of living independently.
Tower 1, where the fire was contained, has 61 units in total. An initial inspection report indicates that around 44 units have been impacted.
The Saskatchewan Housing Corporation does not yet have a report on the total cost of the damage. Parenteau said they are working with the local fire department and insurance adjustors to determine next steps and will begin the necessary planning to conduct repairs once all assessments are completed.
Rent for Diefenbaker Place is calculated at 30 per cent of gross household income, and includes heat, water/sewer, and laundry. Tenants are encouraged to purchase insurance so they are protected in the event of a fire or other incident.
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