By Sarah Petz
Main Street Project reports flooding in the area due to Manwin Hotel’s water diversion
Main Street Project has filed a lawsuit against the Manwin Hotel’s owners, claiming that water from the roof of the hotel was leaking onto Winnipeg’s shelter, causing extensive property damage.
In the lawsuit filed on Nov. 16, the Manitoba Court of King’s Bench stated that the roof of the hotel has an extreme slope, causing all water from rain, snow, and ice to flow directly into the adjacent property of Main Street Project.
The report says that the owners of the hotel have failed or neglected to “take any measure whatsoever” in order to avoid this. This includes not installing gutters, downspouts and/or drainage pipes, and/or repairing the slope on the roof.
According to the suit, charity had repeatedly tried to convince the owner of the hotel to correct the problems but without success.
The statement of claim states that the property owned by Main Street Project has suffered from flooding, and has sustained significant damage. This includes the staining of bricks and mortar and the degradation of steel columns supporting the foundation.
Main Street Project also claims that the Manwin owners have violated the City of Winnipeg lot grading ordinance, according to which property owners must ensure that any stormwater that comes from their land isn’t directed to an adjacent parcel “in a way that could adversely impact or damage that property.”
CBC News reached out to Winnipeg City for comment. We are awaiting a reply.
Main Street Project has asked for an injunction that would force hotel owners to fix any problems to stop stormwater getting on the property of the shelter and causing more damage.
A minimum of $50,000 is sought by the charity in compensation.
The hotel owners are yet to file a defence statement and have not had the allegations of the lawsuit tested in court. CBC News could not reach the Manwin Hotel owners on Tuesday.
In October 2010, community members rallied outside the Manwin Hotel to demand its closure because of the poor conditions within the building.
Over the years, the Manwin Hotel has seen a number of fatalities and assaults. In two separate incidents, at least four people have been killed at this hotel over the last six years.
An inspection by multiple agencies of the hotel at the end of August revealed many problems. A notice was then issued to the province for repairs.
Manitoba Health conducted a followup on the property in October, and the inspectors determined that the owner hadn’t done any work. A provincial spokesperson confirmed this Tuesday.
The spokesperson stated that the provincial health protection unit took action and completed all repairs as of November 16, 2011.
Main Street Project, a charitable organization, provides housing, counselling and food to those who are homeless, struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues.
Roof services are vital for the longevity and integrity of your home’s uppermost layer. Roofs are subject to wear and tear over time due to weather conditions, leaks or old materials. Professional roofing services offer comprehensive solutions including roof inspections, roof repairs, commercial roof replacement services, and the installation of high-quality materials. For more information you can check right here where we give a better view of our service The Roof Technician roofing contractors in Toronto. Expert roofing services can help you address a particular issue, or improve overall resilience. They will ensure a durable and secure roof that protects your home and its inhabitants from the weather.
