Windows keep falling from Riverwalk apartments. A person recently explored various apartments in Philadelphia and became interested in the Riverwalk apartments, a new building complex along the Schuylkill River. The appealing feature of these apartments was their balconies, providing a scenic view and outdoor space.
Developer’s Reputation and Safety Concerns
The apartments were built in 2021 by a well-known property development company, recognized as one of the city’s largest residential landlords. The individual felt reassured about moving there because they had friends living in other properties managed by the same developer, which added a sense of security.
Persistent Issues with Falling Windows
However, after moving into the apartment in February, the resident faced a troubling issue: windows from the upper floors began to fall, with several incidents where windows crashed onto their balcony. In total, at least eight windows have fallen since the complex opened, indicating a severe safety risk that the management seemed slow to address.
Lack of Adequate Response from Management
The tenant made multiple attempts to contact the property management, urging them to investigate the cause of these dangerous occurrences. Despite these efforts, their concerns were largely ignored, and they were even offered money to vacate the apartment instead of a solution to the problem. The safety of the residents, rather than financial compensation, was their primary concern.
Legal Actions and Company Decisions
In response to these ongoing issues, the developer sued a window company from Wisconsin, blaming them for supplying defective window materials that led to spontaneous breakages. This lawsuit highlights the severity of the situation and the potential financial implications of rectifying the damage. Meanwhile, the window company announced it would stop operations and cease selling their products, complicating matters further.
Continued Risks and Communication from Management
Despite some communication from the property manager about working on the issue, residents felt that the response was not timely or transparent enough. The property management proposed measures such as installing protective scaffolding and conducting ongoing investigations with engineers, but these solutions were reactive rather than preventative. Residents, including the individual, expressed ongoing concern for their safety, particularly when using their balconies, fearing another incident.
This situation at the Riverwalk apartments underscores the importance of proper building maintenance and responsive management, especially when it involves high-rise living where the stakes are significantly higher. The individual, like many others, hoped for a swift and effective resolution to ensure the safety and peace of mind of all tenants.