Tenants of West Warwick apartments protest for better living conditions
WEST WARWICK, R.I. (WJAR) — Tenants of a West Warwick apartment building hit their breaking point and protested on Sunday afternoon in demand of better living conditions.
Current and past residents told NBC 10 News they’ve faced deplorable conditions including structural issues, major leaks, rat infestations, and lead concerns.
The group shared their stories outside of the Pioneer Investments property on Washington Street.
Tenant Renee Horne read off a list of demands:
"Working appliances, fix broken windows and doors, fire safety two exits above first floor, return our security deposits, hire licensed professionals, give us adequate notice for repairs and other visits to our homes."
"We shouldn't be having to deal with water damage, we shouldn't be having to deal with bathrooms not working and having to go down the street to a gas station for over six months," said former tenant Kaylin Redmond.
Tenants also claimed the building has a rodent problem, and said when they call for help, they're often met with silence.
A nonprofit organization, Reclaim Rhode Island, and town leaders attended to show their support.
“Lead poisoning, gas leaks, there's issues in these apartments that are directly affecting people's health, especially children," said Organizing Director of Reclaim Rhode Island, Miguel Youngs. "It's tragic, it's devastating."
Tenants said this is just the beginning, and they won't give up until something is done.
"He needs to be held accountable," Horne said. "The state needs to realize when someone is buying up so many properties, to make sure that they can maintain those properties."
NBC 10 reached out to Pioneer Investments and the landlord for a response.