Residents of Willow Run Apartments Face Health Hazards from Mold and Water Damage

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Challenges at Willow Run Apartments

Imagine raising your children in an apartment that’s not just uncomfortable but filled with *mold* and *bacteria*. This has become a heavy reality for several families living at Willow Run Apartments since June, and the situation has just gotten worse over time.

The Struggles of Portia Mack and Her Family

Portia Mack, a resident of Willow Run since September 2023, has shared her distressing experience. “Me and my children are suffering,” she expressed. “We’re living in this mold-infested apartment, with gnats and flies. And it’s just water everywhere.”

Her ordeal began in June when her apartment faced severe water damage. “You see how the floors are wet right now when you walk? That’s what we started to see,” Mack explained. Fast forward four months, and her apartment has at least *standing water* inside and *mold* creeping up the walls for three feet. The image is haunting, especially knowing that it’s near where her two-year-old daughter often plays with her toys.

Efforts to Address the Water Damage

Mack recounted how her neighbor had tried to report the ongoing water issue but was met with skepticism. “They didn’t believe her until the property manager and maintenance came out and saw all the water,” she said, illustrating the struggle many tenants face when dealing with property management.

Though the management initially offered to relocate Mack’s neighbor, there weren’t any other units available for her or her children. With no signs of help on the horizon, Mack decided to take action herself. “I just had enough of it and I emailed the Chief of Code Enforcement last night. They came right out, in less than 24 hours,” she noted with a mix of hope and frustration.

A Quick Response from Code Enforcement

After the visit from Columbia’s code enforcement team, the situation took a turn. Mack was informed that she had just 24 hours to vacate her apartment. “I was relieved, but then a sudden anxiety came over me because I’m like, ‘Where are they going to put us?’” she reflected, showcasing the complex emotions of relief and uncertainty.

City of Columbia’s Follow-Up

City of Columbia Code Enforcement was contacted for more information about the case. A spokesperson confirmed that the apartment manager was working on housing arrangements for the displaced tenants. This shows a small ray of hope for Mack and others dealing with these uncomfortable living conditions.

Seeking Answers from Property Management

In the wake of these developments, attempts were made to reach out to both Willow Run Apartments and their property management company, Beacon Property Services, based in Spartanburg. Questions arose regarding the delays and lack of action over several months that led to these dire situations. Unfortunately, neither the apartments nor the property management company has responded to requests for comments so far.

A Community’s Concern

This troubling situation at Willow Run has caught the attention of the broader community, raising concerns about the living conditions faced by so many families. As we witness the plight of tenants like Portia Mack, one can’t help but hope that authorities and property managers will prioritize the health and safety of their residents moving forward.

In a world where families should feel secure in their homes, the residents of Willow Run Apartments are reminding us of the need for prompt attention to those pressing home-related issues. We can only stand by and hope for a resolution that ensures safe and healthy living conditions for all families involved.