At least 40 residents were forced to leave two apartment buildings in Milwaukee after inspectors found potentially dangerous faults in the electrical and fire alarm systems.
The properties on Michigan Street, between 23rd and 24th Streets, were evacuated on Wednesday, 23 September, after a residential inspector from the Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services identified what officials described as an immediate threat to health and safety.
Milwaukee apartments evacuated over safety concerns
Officials said the electrical system appeared to have been tampered with, leaving the circuit breakers unable to function properly. Inspectors also found problems with the fire alarm system and fire doors.
The Department of Neighborhood Services issued a temporary order, known as a placard, preventing residents from living in the buildings until the faults are addressed. Tenants were given little time to gather their belongings and leave.
Jeremy McGovern, from the department, said the decision was taken to prevent residents remaining in a situation that could have resulted in serious harm or death.
“Unfortunately, it’s not a situation we look forward to,” Mr McGovern said. “And I understand how it could be very frustrating for them. However, when there’s a decision between displacement or leaving a situation where it is with potential harm or potential death, the decision has to be displacement.”
Community Advocates and Near West Side Partners attended the scene to help those who had been displaced.
The landlord is responsible for carrying out the repairs and bringing the buildings up to code before residents can return. The management company, Smart Asset Reality, had not responded to requests for comment.
