Dear Tony: Our building has two elevators and we have had a history of problems with both of them shutting down and no elevator access for several days. We do not have a cargo elevator, so moves require access to one unit and if the other is shut down we have serious access issues for residents.
Is the strata corporation obliged to have alternate accommodations for persons with disabilities or access issues? We are getting pressure to move some owners to a local hotel until the repairs are done.Dear Sharon: My first call would be to your insurance provider to determine if there are is any support for relocation or living expenses where there is a mechanical failure that prevents access to the residences.
Determine if there are any limitations such as a minimum time period, what costs are actually covered and how the coverage is accessed. Access for medical appointments, groceries, support services and emergencies are all crucial for residents and emergency responders. If an owner is on the 16th floor with a medical emergency and there are no elevators, responders will be climbing 16 floors with equipment and may require removal down 16 floors.