Calgary

Illegal secondary suite owners charged by Calgary Fire Department

Two Calgary homeowners have been charged for fire violations in illegal secondary suites.

Tenant suffered minor injuries after fire in northwest Calgary suite

The owners of two secondary suites are facing charges under the Alberta Fire Code. (CBC)

Two Calgary homeowners have been charged for fire violations in illegal secondary suites.

In both cases the fire department responded to a fire in an illegal suite.

One person suffered minor injuries in a fire on April 12. The property located at 631 68th Ave N.W. didn't have a bedroom window that met fire code requirements, no fire alarm requirements and no proper fire separation in the suite.

No one was hurt in the second case in Hawkwood in the northwest, but the property located at 8412 Hawkview Manor Rd N.W. didn't meet the same requirements.

"Ensuring that rental suites meet the Alberta Fire Code is an important priority for the Calgary Fire Department," said fire marshal Ed Kujat.

"Owners of secondary suites are legally accountable for knowing and understanding their obligations under the Alberta Fire Code. Tenants have a right to live in a safe home and to be protected under the Fire Code, regardless of whether the rental unit is a secondary suite or in a multi-family building."

Both matters go to court July 8. The maximum fine is $100,000.