Multifamily Buildings in Ciego de Ávila: Water Leaks, Stalled Elevators, and Insufficient Resources

The situation of multifamily buildings in Ciego de Ávila reflects a growing crisis that impacts thousands of families residing in these structures, many of which have been marked by decades of accumulated deterioration.

Issues such as leaks, outdated plumbing systems, non-functional elevators, and a lack of resources for maintenance are just some of the challenges facing its residents, reported the government-aligned newspaper Invasor.

Alicia Sosa Hernández, senior specialist in Conservation and Rehabilitation at the Provincial Housing Department, acknowledged that for 2024, only construction actions have been planned for 16 multifamily buildings in the province.

However, by November 2024, repairs had only been completed on seven buildings, all located in the municipality of Morón.

The specialist stated that it will be impossible to meet the program due to the lack of essential materials such as waterproof blankets and tiles.

This leaves most properties with deteriorated roofs and exposed to leaks, which directly affect the quality of life for the residents.

One of the most critical issues in these buildings is the condition of the plumbing and sanitary systems, which in many cases are collapsed due to age and a lack of maintenance.

These problems are compounded by the limited action of the management boards and the lack of a sense of belonging among some residents, which contributes to the deterioration of common areas such as staircases, lobbies, and rooftops.

The tallest buildings, with nine and twelve floors, as well as the so-called Pediatric building, are equipped with elevators managed by the Municipal Housing Office.

According to Lázaro Chaviano Soto, head of the Administration Department, out of the 27 elevators in these buildings, only 15 are operational, while 12 are out of service for various reasons.

The official justified the delays in the repair of the elevators by citing high costs and a lack of resources, but also blamed the residents for not adhering to the internal regulations, pointing out that practices such as transporting bicycles and construction materials hasten the deterioration of the equipment.

The lack of effective regulations regarding the use of common areas, such as facades and rooftops, along with residents' failure to comply with established rules, exacerbates conflicts and contributes to the deterioration of the buildings.

The crisis not only stems from a lack of resources but also from a deficiency in organization and commitment to maintain these infrastructures.

The situation reveals a structural deterioration that not only impacts the aesthetics and functionality of the buildings but also the safety of their residents. With non-operational elevators, many elderly individuals or those with limited mobility are facing significant challenges in getting around.

Leaking pipes and poorly maintained hydraulic systems pose a health risk, while neglect of common areas worsens the overall deterioration of the buildings.

In light of this reality, local authorities face a monumental challenge in ensuring decent living conditions in the multifamily buildings of Ciego de Ávila.

However, as long as the lack of resources, disorganization, and collective disinterest persist, the quality of life for those living in these structures will continue to deteriorate, reflecting a problem that transcends the borders of the province and is indicative of the housing crisis throughout the country.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Housing Crisis in Ciego de Ávila