Herne (dpa / lnw) - In Herne, two apartment buildings have been evacuated because of the sometimes life-threatening conditions for the residents. The city's housing inspectorate found during an inspection on Tuesday that the apartments were uninhabitable, the municipality said. The Belvona housing company, whose properties are involved, will ensure that the tenants are accommodated in replacement apartments. There are seven families and about 30 people, said a city spokeswoman on Wednesday. The West German radio had also reported.
Serious deficiencies were found during the check, including with fire brigade forces, including massive water ingress, which could be related to a defective heating system. Unsecured power sources were also found. Because of the acute danger, the electricity and water supply to the houses were immediately shut off.
For the families, Belvona has promised alternative living space in other buildings in the complex. According to the city, the company must temporarily ensure alternative accommodation until these are ready for occupancy.
