Key Takeaways:
- Accessible Properties has terminated the tenancies of 11 tenants in Tauranga due to "major structural issues" with the properties, including weathertightness issues and damaged timber framing.
- The issues were discovered after extensive weathertightness testing was carried out on the properties, which had monolithic cladding.
- Tenants were given seven-day notices to vacate the properties, and Accessible Properties has provided temporary or permanent accommodation for all affected tenants.
- The properties may be remediated, redeveloped, or sold, and Kāinga Ora is also investigating weathertightness issues in its similar properties on the same street.
- The affected tenants have been relocated to new homes in Tauranga, with Accessible Properties covering their moving costs and providing support during the transition.
Introduction to the Issue
The Bay of Plenty Times has reported on a situation where Accessible Properties has terminated the tenancies of 11 tenants in Tauranga due to significant structural issues with the properties. One of the affected tenants, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her experience of discovering black mould in her home 11 years ago and reporting it to her tenancy manager. Despite initial repairs, the mould returned, and the tenant was eventually told to move out of the property due to weathertightness issues. The tenant described the experience as a "bloody bombshell" and was left feeling shocked and uncertain about what would happen next.
The Discovery of Structural Issues
The discovery of the structural issues began when one of the properties became vacant in July, and Accessible Properties carried out extensive weathertightness testing. The results revealed significant damage to the timber framing, which raised concerns about the structural integrity of the buildings. The testing was undertaken due to the age, design, and cladding of the properties, which made them prone to weathertightness issues. The findings were shared with all tenants on August 5, and a structural engineer’s assessment was conducted to confirm the concerns. The report revealed that the properties had "major structural issues" and were "uninhabitable and unsafe to live in".
Response to the Crisis
Accessible Properties took immediate action to address the situation, issuing seven-day notices to all tenants and arranging temporary or permanent accommodation for them. The organization covered the moving costs and provided support to the tenants during the transition. Most tenants chose to move immediately, while a small number remained in the properties for the full notice period. Accessible Properties has now relocated all 11 tenants to permanent accommodation in Tauranga, with two tenants moving to homes provided by other organizations and the rest moving to Accessible Properties homes.
Collaboration with Kāinga Ora
Kāinga Ora, the agency responsible for the management of state-owned homes, was informed of the weathertightness issues in July. The agency has been working alongside Accessible Properties to investigate the issues and determine the next steps for the affected properties. Tenants of nine Kāinga Ora homes on the same street were also relocated in August due to similar weathertightness issues. The spokesperson for Kāinga Ora confirmed that the agency is considering remediation, redevelopment, or potential divestment of the site, but there is no update on what will happen to the homes at this time.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The situation highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of properties to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Accessible Properties has taken a proactive approach to addressing the structural issues and supporting the affected tenants. The organization is now working through the next steps for the properties, which may include remediation, redevelopment, or sale of the site. The collaboration between Accessible Properties and Kāinga Ora demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of tenants and ensuring that they have access to safe and secure housing.