Detroit, December 10, 2025
Residents of Alden Towers in Detroit have been without heat for weeks, leading to unsafe practices like using ovens for warmth. The building’s management cites a failing boiler as the issue, prompting city fines and legal action. While a replacement boiler is planned, tenants remain concerned for their safety and rising utility costs due to makeshift heating methods.
Unsafe Heating Practices Rise in Detroit During Ongoing Outage
Detroit, MI – Residents of the Alden Towers apartment complex on Detroit’s east side have been without heat for several weeks, prompting tenants to use unsafe methods like turning on ovens and stovetops to stay warm. The building’s management attributes the issue to a failing boiler, and despite a correction order from the city, the problem remains unresolved. The city has issued fines and is considering legal action against the property owner. In the meantime, tenants continue to face cold conditions, with some reporting increased utility bills due to their makeshift heating solutions.
Residents’ Struggle with Heat Outage
Tenants at Alden Towers have been enduring cold temperatures inside their apartments, leading many to seek alternative heating methods. Some residents have resorted to turning on their ovens and stovetops to generate warmth, a practice that poses significant safety risks. The building’s management has acknowledged the issue, citing a failing boiler as the cause of the heat outage. Despite the city’s intervention and a correction order issued last week, the problem persists, leaving residents in discomfort and concern.
City’s Response and Legal Actions
The City of Detroit has taken steps to address the ongoing heat outage at Alden Towers. The Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) issued a correction order to the property owner last week, mandating the restoration of heat. However, as of Monday, the issue remained unresolved. In response, the city imposed fines totaling $2,000 on the property owner and has indicated plans for daily fines until the situation is rectified. Additionally, the city is collaborating with the Law Department to explore potential legal actions against the building owner for failing to provide adequate heating to tenants.
Property Owner’s Statement and Tenant Concerns
The property owner has acknowledged the heating disruptions, attributing them to a failed boiler and circulation pump. They have ordered a replacement circulation pump, scheduled for delivery and installation in mid-January. In the interim, the owner has authorized the installation of a temporary boiler to restore heat as quickly as possible. Despite these efforts, tenants remain concerned about the prolonged lack of heat and the safety risks associated with using ovens and stovetops for warmth. Some residents have reported increased utility bills due to these makeshift heating methods, adding financial strain to their already challenging living conditions.
Background on Heating Issues in Detroit
Heating issues in Detroit are not uncommon, especially during the colder months. The city’s property maintenance codes require homes to be heated to at least 65°F. However, many residents face challenges in maintaining adequate heating due to high energy bills and housing issues. In a survey of home problems faced by Detroiters, 19% reported broken heating systems, and 26% cited poor insulation. These statistics highlight the broader challenges residents face in ensuring their homes remain warm and safe during the winter season.
Safety Considerations and Recommendations
Using ovens and stovetops as a primary source of heat is strongly discouraged due to the associated risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. Residents experiencing heating issues are advised to contact their building management immediately to report the problem. If the issue is not resolved promptly, tenants should file a complaint with the city’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) by calling 311 or using the 311 website. HPD will contact the building’s managing agent to address the issue and may dispatch an inspector if the problem persists. Tenants can track HPD’s response through HPD Online. It’s crucial for tenants to be aware of their rights and to take appropriate action to ensure their living conditions are safe and habitable.
Conclusion
The ongoing heat outage at Alden Towers underscores the critical importance of timely maintenance and responsive property management, especially during the winter months. While the city has taken steps to enforce compliance and protect tenants, the situation remains dire for those without heat. Tenants are encouraged to remain vigilant, report issues promptly, and seek assistance from local authorities to ensure their homes are safe and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current heating situation at Alden Towers in Detroit?
Residents have been without heat for several weeks due to a failing boiler. Despite a correction order from the city, the issue remains unresolved, leading tenants to use unsafe methods like turning on ovens and stovetops for warmth.
What actions has the City of Detroit taken regarding the heat outage?
The city issued a correction order to the property owner last week, mandating the restoration of heat. Fines totaling $2,000 have been imposed, with plans for daily fines until the issue is addressed. The city is also considering legal action against the building owner.
What is the property owner’s response to the heating issue?
The property owner acknowledges the heating disruptions, attributing them to a failed boiler and circulation pump. A replacement circulation pump is scheduled for mid-January, and a temporary boiler is being installed to restore heat in the meantime.
What should tenants do if they experience heating issues in their apartments?
Tenants should contact their building management immediately to report the problem. If the issue is not resolved promptly, they should file a complaint with the city’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) by calling 311 or using the 311 website. HPD will contact the building’s managing agent to address the issue and may dispatch an inspector if necessary.
Is it safe to use ovens and stovetops for heating apartments?
No, using ovens and stovetops as a primary source of heat is strongly discouraged due to the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. Residents should seek alternative heating methods and report heating issues to their building management or local authorities.
Key Features of the Situation at Alden Towers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Detroit, MI |
| Building | Alden Towers apartment complex |
| Issue | Prolonged heat outage due to failing boiler |
| Tenant Response | Using ovens and stovetops for warmth |
| City’s Action | Issued correction order, imposed fines, considering legal action |
| Property Owner’s Plan | Ordered replacement circulation pump, installing temporary boiler |
| Safety Advisory | Using ovens and stovetops for heating is unsafe and discouraged |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Detroit Prepares for Significant Snowstorm and Arctic Cold Front
Near-Record Cold Temperatures Expected in Detroit
Detroit Tigers’ Playoff Hopes Dwindle After Tough Loss to Guardians
Revolutionary Concrete Slabs Improve Winter Driving in East Lansing
Michigan Gubernatorial Election Candidates Announced
Severe Weather Alert: Thanksgiving Storm Set to Hit Detroit
Detroit’s Home Repair Revolution: Building a Safer Community
Fire Damages Barn Near Dexter, Michigan
Black Friday Golf Sales of 2025 Bring Jaw-Dropping Discounts!
Get Ready for Holidays with Ghost Golf’s Anyday Stand Bag
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
