Vancouver, Canada: A fire at a strata unit in the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus caused by the use of a portable gas stove indoors led to significant damage, according to a recent notice of civil claim filed in the B.C. Supreme Court on February 15.
The incident, as outlined in the claim, was triggered when the renter of the unit, Cishan Cheng or someone permitted by them, used a Canada Six Fortune butane gas stove on February 26, 2022, resulting in an explosion or flash fire. This in turn activated the sprinkler system, causing water damage not only to the rental unit but also to adjacent units and common areas of the building.
Xiaolu Niu, the unit owner, alleges that Cheng was negligent in the use of the stove by failing to operate it with reasonable care, mishandling the butane fuel, and neglecting to promptly address the fire. Niu is seeking compensation for various losses incurred, including strata chargebacks, fire investigation expenses, repair costs, and replacement of damaged contents.
While these allegations are currently unproven in court, such disputes between strata unit owners and renters often find their way to the B.C. Civil Resolution Tribunal for resolution. However, as of now, there is no record of this particular case involving the strata corporation in the tribunal’s database.
The consequences of misuse of gas appliances indoors can prove to be not only destructive but also costly, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and regulations in residential settings. As investigations into the incident continue, the parties involved will navigate through the legal proceedings to determine accountability and potential resolutions for the damages caused.