Residents are frustrated by ongoing issues, including a shocking incident where a worker fell through a resident’s ceiling during renovations.
The loud noise startled Federica. Part of her ceiling crashed down. A worker was hanging from above, his legs dangling into her apartment. She felt shocked and terrified by the event. The accident could have seriously hurt them both.
Federica mentioned ongoing problems since 2023. These issues plague the estate’s 116 apartments. Guinness Partnership manages Iveagh House. They planned a £12 million renovation, including a new heating system and better ventilation.
Federica reported repeated partial repairs. She described many problems one after another, including flooding, dampness, and mold. Residents also face constant noise and have no access to outdoor space. She said it feels unsafe and overwhelming.
Residents claim they weren’t consulted before work started in 2023. Many residents still live in their homes. The Guinness Partnership said work makes things better. They reported that 39 people moved permanently, and ten people got temporary housing based on need.
Niall Whatley leads the tenant association. He thinks the project is mismanaged. Tenants need time off for the renovations, but often, they get little notice. Whatley also stated finished work is often poor, and some kitchen sinks flood apartments.
A Guinness spokesperson acknowledged drainage problems. They responded quickly to resident problems. Joy Macintosh has lived there since 1996. Renovation work made her anxious and upset for two years. She said Guinness pressured her after her mom died.
Federica said her ceiling got boarded up but was not properly fixed after the incident. She said the housing officer retracted a hotel offer. Now, she doesn’t know what to do. They still must fix her kitchen and bathroom.
The Guinness Partnership stated they fixed the hole fast. They said a temporary move wasn’t needed. The resident will get the final plaster coat. They agreed on this with her.