Dozens of University of Colorado Boulder students were forced out of their off-campus apartments due to city-identified safety violations. The city of Boulder shut down the property citing unapproved construction that created additional bedrooms per unit without the necessary permits.
The city issued an immediate closure order on Monday, giving residents only a few hours to pack their belongings and vacate. In a letter distributed to students, officials said the building at 891 12th St. was being closed "due to safety violations" posed by illegal modifications made by the property owner.
"This is an incredibly unfortunate situation, and we truly regret the inconvenience and disruption for renters," Brad Mueller, director of Planning and Development Services, told Denver 7 News in a statement. "However, safety is always first, and the conditions discovered represent an immediate risk. The building code exists to ensure minimum safety, health and quality of life standards exist for all rental housing. The city determined swift action was needed given the egregious nature of the violations."
The property, known as Ash House, had been approved to house 48 students in 16 three-bedroom units. However, following a tenant complaint, city inspectors discovered that 15 additional bedrooms had been constructed without approval, permits, or safety inspections. As a result, 60 students were displaced, including 13 who must now find permanent housing. The city has prohibited anyone from living in the building until it is restored to its previously permitted condition, according to the outlet.
The forced move-out took students by surprise. Senior Charlie Thomson told CBS News the notice came in the afternoon, leaving them just three hours to leave.
"They came around 2, 3 p.m. so we had 3 hours," he said.
Students also reported not receiving alternative housing arrangements, and Boulder city officials are exploring legal actions to hold the property owners accountable.
The property company criticized the lack of communication and is seeking a court order to delay the eviction until a hearing is held.