A weekend storm left multiple families temporarily displaced from Kiwanis Court Garden Apartments after rainwater poured into units where roof repairs were underway.

Landlord Uriel Rubinov said repairs to address ongoing issues at the complex began about a week ago. When a storm hit Saturday night, a temporary covering on several exposed roofs was torn away, allowing water to leak into apartments.

“Due to an unexpected thunderstorm, the covering was ripped off the exposed roofs being repaired,” said Rubinov. “The water penetrated several units.”

City health and safety officer Brandon Plowman confirmed that 10 units were impacted, with at least five needing to be fully rehabilitated before residents can return.

“Not all of the units were deeply affected, but several were severely affected,” said Plowman, who expressed concern about how the repairs had been carried out. He said it appeared that roofing material had been removed, but the underlying planking may not have been adequately protected.

“I don’t even know who was responsible for the repairs,” said Plowman.

No specific company was mentioned. He noted that there appeared to be independent individuals working on the project.

While Rubinov said workers had installed plastic sheeting to cover the exposed roofs, Plowman noted that the coverings may have blown off during the rain.

Plowman only wished to comment on what he experienced.

“When I got there on Sunday, there were men up on the roof securing the plastic sheeting,” said Plowman. “But, I don’t know what had happened before that.”

Now, the city’s primary concern is preventing further health and safety risks for residents. Plowman is especially worried that mold may develop in the waterlogged units.

Several Kiwanis Court units were damaged.

“Any material that has been exposed to water will have to be removed, including any insulation and drywall,” said Plowman. “I do not want occupants in the units while this is occurring in case mold has begun to form since Sunday.”

Families whose units have been affected have been moved to temporary housing at the Best Western Plus Bradford Inn.

Plowman said he will issue a report on the matter and will continue to monitor the situation.

“I will be generating a report that states we would like to inspect all of the affected areas before the drywall and insulation are replaced,” said Plowman.

Rubinov hopes repairs can be completed quickly, hopefully within the next two to three weeks. He claimed that finding skilled labor in Bradford has been difficult since he took over as landlord in 2023.

“I am doing everything feasible to improve the community and the buildings,” said Rubinov.

In addition to addressing the damage, other upgrades are planned for the property including window repairs and improvements to the children’s playground.

Plowman said displaced families should know the city will remain closely involved with the matter.

“I just want to assure our community that the city is aware of the situation,” Plowman said, “and we are going to monitor it closely to ensure we can avoid any risk to public health or safety.”