Residents at expensive Fort Lauderdale apartment complex complain of AC, maintenance problems
FORT LAUDERDALE — When Pedro Navarro moved into the Manor at Flagler Village in May, he had high hopes. He pays $3,600 per month for a two-bedroom apartment in the Fort Lauderdale complex.
But now, Navarro doesn't think he's getting his money's worth.
"The hallways are very, very warm. It's been a month and a half," Navarro said.
He said the air conditioning isn't working and the gates are not repaired.
"The grounds look very sloppy as well... maintenance hasn't been the same," he said.
It's a big change from when the Manor was built 10 years ago as part of Fort Lauderdale's massive downtown development. The upscale mid-rise off of Federal Highway and North 5th Avenue has high ceilings, a resort-style pool and underground parking.
Another tenant told CBS News Miami she believes mold in her apartment is a result of no air conditioning in the hallway.
CBS News Miami talked briefly with property manager Ivette Tillman who told us to email her questions. She said the building was sold a year ago and her company RPM Living is in transition, fixing what's wrong.
According to their website, RPM Living is one of the largest apartment management companies in the U.S., overseeing a quarter million units.
Manor tenant Joe Borras said since RPM Living took over recently, he's seen a decline
"The gate doesn't close. Sometimes the door doesn't lock," he said. "I sent emails. No response."
He also said homeless people have been in the garage.
"It's terrible," Borras added.
So terrible that Navarro has considered breaking his lease.
"We do like the unit - it's just a rough transition," he said. "We hope they can pull around. We'll have to wait and see."
Tenants said they intend to file complaints with the City of Fort Lauderdale.