Rent of historic Edmonton apartment increased by $1,800

Residents at an apartment building in downtown Edmonton are raising concerns about the sudden increase in their rent after a new property management took over the building just this year. 

“Yeah, we’re all shocked,” said Oseph Rockwood, who has been living in the Annamoe Mansion along Victoria Promenade for four years.

“It’s got a lot of character. Clawfoot tubs, hardwood floors, gas fireplaces. It’s great to live here.”

But he’s now feeling forced to move. On April 1st, residents received a notice of rent increase.

Rockwood currently pays $880 a month, but come July, his rent is to increase by $1,800.

“At that point, I can’t actually afford to feed myself if I stay here,” Rockwood explained. “They will raise the rent in the long run, but not to the level that they’re saying they ought to be currently.”

The new owners of the building, built in 1914, say the rent increase is necessary to repair the aging building. They say has not been well maintained over the years, adding that current rents are below market value.

In an email to CityNews ARH Holdings says, “By introducing new amenities and making significant improvements while preserving its historic charm. Restoring/preserving a building of this nature is considerably more expensive than standard renovations.”

But residents fear this is a case of “renoviction” where tenants are pushed out through renovations they can’t afford.

“I’m trying to get my life back together, and them adding this is just another kick in the butt,” said Amadew Walt, who has been a resident for six months.

But the landlords say they do not want tenants to leave. Adding, they are happy to work with the ones that choose to stay.

“Everyone in the building will move, that’s a guarantee. They’ve effectively priced us out,” said Rockwood.