AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – A crisis PR firm issued a statement on behalf of Maxwell House Apartments.
On July 23rd, NewsChannel 6 spoke with residents of the high-rise about the conditions of their home.
Several people told us about the lack of working elevators, a rat infestation, and no air-conditioning.
Red Banyan, a crisis PR firm from Tampa, issued a statement on behalf of Maxwell House:
Following a recent in-unit fire that activated the building’s sprinkler system, both elevators were damaged and are currently out of service. We are deeply committed to the health, safety, and dignity of every resident we serve. We recognize the challenges many residents are facing and we are doing everything in our power to make things right.
Within 24 hours, we brought in our elevator contractor and are actively awaiting the necessary parts to complete repairs. While work is underway, Maxwell House Apartments is providing hotel accommodations as well as daily mobility assistance to residents and will continue to do so until an elevator is fully operational.
We’re also working with city leaders, inspectors, and regulatory agencies to ensure all residents live in a well-maintained and supportive environment. Our team is moving quickly and transparently, and we’ll continue to keep residents and city officials informed as we make progress on a comprehensive action plan aimed at addressing all concerns efficiently.
A spokesperson for Maxwell House Apartments
The following details were also shared.
Maxwell House Apartments is aware of the recent concerns raised and has implemented the following immediate actions:Elevator Repairs:
Our elevator service contractor was engaged within 24 hours of the fire.Replacement parts were paid for and ordered early last week, and due to the specific parts required, the contractor expects delivery within another one to two weeks. This is the fastest timeline they could provide.All associated fees have been approved, including expedited shipping and vendor overtime, to complete repairs as quickly as possible.We are in continuous communication with the Fire Marshal and City Officials.
Resident Support Services:
We are offering temporary hotel accommodations, paid for by Maxwell House Apartments, at nearby extended stay hotels to all registered residents and leaseholders during this period.A third-party non-emergency mobility assistance service has been contracted to help residents unable to use the stairs or who require help relocating.
Building Services Enhancements:
A third-party cleaning company was already in place to clean all common areas four times per week, and that has been increased to daily serviceDaily trash removal service has been introduced for residents who are unable to bring trash downstairs.Third-party pest control visits weekly, and we are going to be conducting an all-unit inspection with recommended treatment/action plans for each unit.
Building Infrastructure and A/C Concerns:
The building’s roof was resealed in late 2024. Currently, only one active leak has been reported in the 216-unit building and is being repaired by an outside contractor.The building’s central air conditioning system is operational, and we will be conducting a 100% occupied unit walk to verify temperatures and ensure cooling in all units.
A/C Concerns
Claims that the apartment building’s A/C unit is turned off every night are blatantly false. Issues with any unit’s A/C are addressed on a case-by-case basis. To ensure the comfort of our residents we will be visiting each unit in our all-unit inspection and checking the temperature and will provide supplemental AC units where needed.
