Hoover Haven Apartments Fire Hits 12 Units; Everyone Escapes

Firefighters in Hoover, Alabama, battled heavy fire in a three-story building at The Haven Apartments early Sunday, leaving about a dozen units damaged. Everyone got out safely, according to local reports, but officials had not said how many residents lost their homes.

What happened

The Hoover Fire Department was called to the complex on Chace Lake Drive at about 5 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18; WBRC put the call at 4:59 a.m. ABC 33/40 identified the address as 2903 Chace Lake Drive. Crews arriving at the three-story building found heavy fire and had it under control in about 45 minutes.

About a dozen apartments were hit, WVTM and ABC 33/40 reported. WBRC added that some had heavy fire damage while others suffered smoke and water damage.

Residents and aid

No injuries were reported among residents or firefighters. WBRC reported that the American Red Cross of Alabama responded to help displaced residents. ABC 33/40 noted that officials had not said how many people were displaced or when they might be able to return, and WBRC described the number only as “multiple.” WVTM called the story developing. No count of displaced residents appears in any of the three reports, and this article does not estimate one.

Cause

The cause is under investigation, and no official has said what started the fire.

What this means for renters

A fire that damages a dozen units in a single building affects far more households than the ones that burned. Smoke and water damage can make neighboring apartments unlivable for days or weeks. If you live in a building like this one:

• Ask for status in writing. Request a written update from the property manager on when your unit can be re-entered, whether utilities are safe and how rent will be handled while you are out.
• Keep records. Photograph belongings and damage as soon as you are allowed in, and save every receipt for lodging, meals and replacement clothing.
• Contact the Red Cross. It can help with immediate needs such as lodging and supplies for people displaced by a fire.
• Check your renters insurance. Many policies include loss-of-use coverage for temporary housing. Our guide on renters insurance after a fire explains how it works.
• Follow a checklist. Our first-72-hours checklist walks through what to do right after a fire.

Lease terms and local law govern whether you owe rent on a unit you cannot live in, and whether you can end the lease early. If you are unsure, a local legal aid office can explain your options for free in many cases.