Griffin renter's apartment moldy, wet 12 weeks after Hurricane Helene

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Published  December 20, 2024 7:01pm EST
FOX 5 Atlanta
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I-Team: Spalding County woman still dealing with issues after hurricane

Posted December 20, 2024 A Spalding County woman's apartment was badly damaged by Hurricane Helene and her apartment complex has failed to make adequate repairs. She is now dealing with multiple problems, including mold.

The Brief

    • In September, Hurricane Helene caused significant damage to Teresa Rogers, 66, Griffin apartment. Spalding County Code Enforcement calls it "uninhabitable" because water pours in through the ceiling, soaking the walls that surround an electrical socket.
    • Garden Gate Apartments management says ownership filed for bankruptcy earlier this year and has no access to funds for repairs. Her roommate moved out over the conditions, and now she is behind on rent and being evicted.
    • A county inspector says the property is scheduled to be cited for not maintaining structurally sound and sanitary conditions. Inspectors are allowing her to stay because they worry she has nowhere else to go.

GRIFFIN, Ga. - WHAT WE KNOW: Garden Gate Apartment management says Ms. Roger was offered another apartment. The renter told the I-Team it was offered at a higher price she could not afford. Neither has documentation to support their assertions. 

KPM Investment O LLC, out of New York, owns the apartment complex. 

THE BACKSTORY: Complaints about moldy conditions started before the hurricane. The bedroom has no heating source, in violation of county codes. 

THE OTHER SIDE: Ms. Rogers believes she should have a month of free rent while living in these conditions. Management has not made that offer. 

The Source: FOX 5 I-Team's Dana Fowle  spoke to a Spalding County Code Enforcement officer after we interviewed renter Teresa Rogers. The BMGA Properties apartment manager offered background on the tenant relationship. And United States Bankruptcy Court records were reviewed.