High Park Tenants Demand Action Amid Recurring Heating Failures

Tenants residing in multiple buildings along High Park Avenue, specifically at 35, 65, and 95 High Park Avenue, as well as 66 Pacific Avenue, are facing severe heating failures during one of the coldest winters on record. Residents report enduring days without adequate heat, with indoor temperatures plummeting below safety standards. This recurring issue has prompted tenants to rely on personal space heaters, which have led to power outages and increased electricity bills.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable

Residents allege that GWL Realty Advisors, their landlord, has delayed necessary repairs to heating systems and windows, despite years of above-guideline rent increases. One tenant, who has lived in the complex for five years, described the situation as "unlivable," stating that radiators frequently malfunction and the boiler often breaks down. She noted that the landlord has acknowledged the inadequate insulation of the windows but has failed to follow through on promised repairs.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable

The tenant expressed frustration, saying, “If I want to make a meal, I have to bundle up to use the kitchen,” highlighting the extreme conditions they face daily. Many residents have signed a petition, now exceeding 200 signatures, calling for urgent intervention from both GWL and the city to ensure safe living conditions.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable

Despite repeated complaints to GWL and the city’s 311 service, tenants report that the situation remains unresolved. A memo from GWL indicated that heat would be restored by the end of January 26, but as of the following morning, some units still lacked heat. Residents have described GWL's reassurances as "gaslighting," claiming that they are told they are among the few units without heat, despite widespread issues.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable

Critics argue that GWL Realty Advisors has failed to uphold its responsibilities to provide adequate heating, especially during extreme weather conditions. Tenants are demanding not only immediate repairs but also compensation for increased hydro costs due to the use of space heaters. They are calling for alternative accommodations if GWL cannot ensure livable temperatures.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable

The petition from High Park tenants seeks immediate action from GWL and city officials to address the heating failures. Residents are advocating for the provision of space heaters for each unit and financial support for increased energy costs. As the winter continues, the urgency for a resolution grows, with tenants expressing their determination to fight for their rights to safe and livable housing conditions.

‘We are freezing,’ High Park tenants say recurring winter heating failures have made apartments unlivable