KALAMAZOO TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Demolition of stairways described as rotting and rusted in inspection reports at an apartment complex that faced condemnation nearly two months ago is scheduled to start on Monday.
Nearly two months after the Kalamazoo Area Building Authority (KABA) posted condemned notices on the front door of every apartment at Wildwood Off Main, a more than 30-building complex with nearly 300 units, management told residents in an email that the demolition of stairs to upper level units will begin on Monday.
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KABA’s inspection report described the stairs as rotted and rusted, which, combine with other structural issues, lead to the May 7 condemnation. Inspection reports dating as early as 2022 describe similar issues with the stairs, building officials noting that management did order some repairs that year.
KABA’s report cited the following violations as reason for the condemnation:
- Severely deteriorated stairs, joist hangers, guardrails, and posts
- Rot and deterioration throughout deck structures, with severely corroded fasteners
- A partially collapsed deck above the lower-level gym entrance at the clubhouse
- Holes in ceilings, gaps along unit bases, and evidence of mouse infestation
- Soft spots in kitchen floors
- Moisture damage along ceilings and walls
- Rotted and rusted balcony door frames
Once the old stairs are gone, management told residents temporary stairs will be installed the week of July 6. They’re also working to fix “balcony-related safety items.”…