COVID-19: Resident Communication

COVID-19: Resident Communication

December 8th, 2020
Saskatchewan Update - Public Access Restricted to Appointment Only in Regina Offices

As Saskatchewan has recently introduced new guidelines to alleviate pressure on our health care system in regard to COVID-19, we too are going to do our part and restrict daily public access to our Deveraux Apartment Communities' administration offices. Effective December 9th, our offices will be closed to the public and open by appointment only.

While we may not be able to see your smiling face in person, we still look forward to serving you remotely. Even though we have restricted public access, our office hours remain the same and we look forward to having you contact us at anytime via phone or email.

Please note that our clubhouse and fitness facilities will remain open at this time, however we ask that you continue respect the guidelines in place as far as social distancing and maximum number of occupants.

These are certainly unprecedented times, and our thoughts are with you and your loved ones during this time. Please don't hesitate to contact our office with any questions you may have.

 

November 10th, 2020
Manitoba Code Red - Public Access Restricted in Winnipeg Offices

As you may have heard this morning, Manitoba has now moved into a code red status to alleviate pressure on our health care system in regards to COVID-19. With the approved social gathering size now being limited to only immediate family members, we too are going to do our part and restrict public access to our Deveraux Apartment Communities' administration offices.

While we may not be able to see your smiling face in person, we still look forward to serving you remotely. Even though we have restricted public access, our office hours remain the same and we look forward to having you contact us at anytime via phone or email.

Please note that our clubhouse and fitness facilities will also remain closed at this time for your safety.

These are certainly unprecedented times, and our thoughts are with you and your loved ones during this time. Please don't hesitate to contact our office with any questions you may have.

 

November 5th, 2020
Saskatchewan - Masks Mandatory

As of 12:01 am Friday, November 6, provincial government public health orders will be amended, enhancing measures to address increasing COVID-19 case rates in the province of Saskatchewan. Transmission trends in rural and smaller centres have been linked primarily to private gatherings while transmission in the urban areas, includes both private gatherings and exposures in public spaces.  With this, all individuals will now be required to wear non-medical masks when in indoor public spaces in Saskatoon, Regina and Prince Albert. This public health order will be in place for 28 days, then subject to review by the Chief Medical Health Officer thereafter.

https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/guidance-on-cloth-and-non-medical-cloth-masks

The Saskatchewan Landlord Association, of which Deveraux Apartment Communities is a member, has contacted the Business Response Team of the Government of Saskatchewan and has confirmed the following: 

Common areas of multi-family buildings such as hallways, stairwells, elevators, clubhouses, and rental offices are public in nature because members of the public and/or guests can access these areas. This means that tenants, guests, and staff are required to wear masks in these areas.

Private areas are a tenant's suite, unit, apartment, condo, and are not classified as public so therefore masks are of course not required when in your private space.

We kindly ask that residents recognize this public health order and abide by this rule.  Furthermore, please ensure that you are using hand sanitizer when entering buildings.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping yourself and others safe and healthy.

 

October 30th, 2020
Manitoba Code Red – Closure of Amenity Spaces

Manitoba's Chief Provincial Health Officer announced today that the Winnipeg Metro Region will be moving to code red on the pandemic response system.  With this, there are more significant restrictions to spaces where people can congregate, like restaurants, gyms, and retail businesses.  Given this information, and effective on Monday, November 2 at 8am, Deveraux Apartment Communities will be closing all onsite fitness centres and clubhouse spaces.  We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause, however given the limited space inside these facilities, we feel that it is reasonable and responsible to restrict use as yet another measure to keep our residents and employees healthy and safe. 

 

October 13th, 2020
Saskatchewan and Manitoba Resident Update – COVID-19

Dear Residents, as we continue to navigate through these uncertain times, we want to assure you that the health and safety of all residents and staff is of the utmost importance.  As part of our continued responsibility and effort to mitigate the spread of Covid-19, please make note of the following:

• Site Offices – while our site offices will remain open to the public at this time, please be reminded that our Customer Service team can address all of your needs and inquiries remotely.  Please don't hesitate to email or phone, allowing everyone (staff and residents) to maintain appropriate physical distance.  If you do need to visit one of our offices for any reason, please know that masks are now mandatory.
• Gyms and Clubhouses – these spaces will remain open at this time.  We will continue to be diligent in our cleaning and disinfecting of these areas and ask that residents be mindful of this as well, using the supplied disinfectant bottles to wipe down any touched surfaces.  Gym patrons are also reminded to reserve their time using the booking feature on our website here. 
• Maintenance Requests – for the safety of all residents and staff, we are recommending that all non-emergent, in suite maintenance requests be deferred for the time being.  Of course if it is something more serious or an emergency, please contact our team immediately.  Our Associates and Management will use their discretion to address each situation.  For example, if a resident is not home and they are comfortable with our team attending, please be assured that our Associates will enter with masks, sanitized hands and will disinfect any contacted surfaces upon their departure.

If you have any questions or comments, please call our Customer Service team and they will be happy to help.

 

 

June 2nd, 2020
COVID-19 Saskatchewan Update – Deveraux Apartment Communities Site Office and Amenity Reopening Plan

Dear Residents, we are excited to communicate with you today about our plans to reopen some of our common amenity spaces and to resume services that had previously been restricted due to the COVID-19 crisis.  While things may look slightly different, we are committed to strike a balance between customer service and safety and thank you in advance for your patience as we navigate these new processes.

All plans to reopen amenity spaces are informed by government guidelines, along with recommendations from Public Health.  With this, access to these facilities and some of the restrictions that will be in place moving forward, are to ensure that we are aligned with current legislation.  In our efforts to be onside with government guidelines we will gradually resume services, ensuring that we can provide proper supervision, hygiene/disinfecting supplies, and manageable guidelines for each space.  Our commitment has remained unchanged through this crisis; the safety, health and well-being of all residents is our greatest priority. Please see an overview of the re-open plan for each common space below:

The Deveraux Apartment Community site offices will reopen to the public on Monday, June 8^th.  While these offices will be open to both current residents and prospective residents, we kindly ask that patrons continue to utilize as many of the online services as possible.  This will limit any potential exposure to our staff, as well as to residents.  As a reminder, you can phone, email, visit our website or use the resident portal for just about any service.  However, if you need to come in to the office, our team will be glad to assist you.

The clubhouses or resident lounge spaces will open on Monday, June 8^th.  To help manage capacity and demand, while ensuring everyone's health and safety, access to the resident lounge will be restricted to residents only at this time.  Furthermore, the following guidelines will be in place:

• Capacity – To ensure appropriate physical distancing we have set a maximum capacity for each common space.  For the clubhouse lounge areas, the respective capacities are:
  • 4013 Harbour Landing Drive (Sky Harbour) – 10 people
  • 3928 Green Falls Drive (Sterling Manor) – 10 people
  • 5501B Prefontaine Avenue (Harbour View Estates) – 8 people
  • 5000 Green Jewel Boulevard (Apex at Acre 21) – 8 people
• Hours of Operation - The lounge space will be open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.  Fob access will be permitted, and residents are expected to self-monitor the capacity rules.
• Time Restrictions - Residents should be mindful of the time spent in the clubhouse and strive not to exceed 1 hour at a time, thus allowing the space to also be enjoyed by others.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting - Residents are expected to participate in the cleaning and disinfecting of any surface or piece of equipment they may touch (i.e. pool cues, countertops, etc.).  There will be hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray accessible for use in the clubhouse only.  Please do not remove from the clubhouse.  Deveraux cleaning staff will also be doing periodic cleaning throughout the day.
• Other Guidelines – Residents are to follow all posted guidelines on site, including those referencing physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc..  Access and enjoyment of the facility are contingent upon all residents following the expectations of use.

On site gyms will reopen on Monday, June 8^th.  Gyms will be restricted to residents only at this time.  The following guidelines will be in place:

• Capacity - To ensure appropriate physical distancing we have set a maximum capacity for each common space.  For the gyms the respective capacities are:
  • 4013 Harbour Landing Drive (Sky Harbour) – 8 people
  • 3928 Green Falls Drive (Sterling Manor) – 8 people
  • 5501B Prefontaine Avenue (Harbour View Estates) – 8 people
  • 5000 Green Jewel Boulevard (Apex at Acre 21) – 8 people
  • 4830 Gordon Road (Residences at Grasslands) – 6 people
• Hours of Operation – Gyms are meant to have full time staff on site if they are to reopen.  Given that each clubhouse gym is not distinctly staffed by a full time employee, we will only be able to open the gyms during regular office hours, when Deveraux office staff is on site and able to oversee the facility and clean between periods of use.  We have extended our office hours to 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday to accommodate gym patrons.
• Time Restrictions – To ensure that all residents are able to use the gym, we are restricting usage to 1 hour blocks of time, on the hour.  Access will be granted at the top of the hour (i.e. 8am), with residents needing to vacate the gym 50 minutes later (i.e. 8:50am), allowing 10 minutes for cleaning and ensuring there is no overlap or over capacity.
• Booking Gym Time – We are developing an online booking calendar that will allow residents to book a time slot.  Further communication will be shared relative to a link for booking and the process later this week.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting - Residents will be expected to clean/disinfect all equipment before and after use.  This includes all surfaces that are also touched.  There will be hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray accessible for use in the gym only.  Please do not remove. Deveraux cleaning staff will also be doing periodic cleaning throughout the day.
• Online Screening Tool – Residents are expected to do a self-screening relative to illness or potential exposure to COVID-19.  The Saskatchewan Health link for this screening tool can be found here - https://public.ehealthsask.ca/sites/COVID-19/. Should a resident complete the screening and it be recommended that you should self-isolate or get tested, please do not visit any of the common amenity spaces on site.
• Other Guidelines – Residents are to follow all posted guidelines on site, including those referencing physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc.. Access and enjoyment of the facility are contingent upon all residents following the expectations of use.

With the COVID-19 crisis, and like all other pool operators across the province, we have had our pool license temporarily suspended during the pandemic.  Outdoor recreational facilities, such as swimming pools, are part of Phase 4 in the Government of Saskatchewan's Reopening Plan.  At this point in time, Phase 4 does not have a defined start date and thus we are unsure of when we will be permitted by Public Health to reopen the pool. 

Pools have had spring maintenance and will be ready to open based upon direction from Public Health.  We anticipate a variety of compliance guidelines and are preparing the sites and our processes for these.  Once the Government of Saskatchewan announces more about Phase 4 and the guidelines relative to the operation of pools, we will apply to Public Health to recommission the pool and communicate more with residents at that time. 

We are doing our best to balance the expectations of residents with the guidelines mandated by the Government of Saskatchewan and Public Health.  This balance means that hours, access and overall use of the common facilities will have some restrictions at this time.  Our sincere hope is that these restrictions will ease and that unrestricted access will once again resume.

We need to remind residents that the use all common facility spaces are at their own risk and that inherently there is increased risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus in public settings (even if at a 2 metre distance).  Deveraux will employ all reasonable procedures that we are capable of to protect your health and safety, but require residents to remain vigilant and to cooperate with the guidelines that have been established by both health authorities and those that we have instituted.  All common facilities are monitored by video surveillance and this will help to inform our evaluation of compliance.  Please know that we take our commitment to keeping everyone safe very seriously and that any breach of the guidelines may impact the ability of a resident or all residents to enjoy the amenity facilities.

As you are aware, all non-urgent in suite work orders/repairs were put on hold until restrictions relative to COVID-19 were lifted.  Our team has recorded all work requests and will be addressing these in the coming weeks by order of urgency and also by when the work order request was submitted.  We kindly ask that you be patient as we catch up on these repair requests.  A Customer Service Representative or Maintenance Associate will be in touch with you about your work order to ensure that you are comfortable with one of our team members visiting your suite.  Please trust that they are being screened daily for illness and will practice appropriate hygiene and physical distancing protocols.

Thank you to those residents that took the time to complete the Customer Service Survey relative to the COVID-19 crisis.  We were humbled by the overall response and by the vote of confidence, with over 90% of residents either 'agreeing' or 'strongly agreeing' with our customer service efforts.   We also heard from residents who were looking for increased cleaning protocols and access to sanitizers.  Please trust that we are responding to these requests and have finally been able to source hand sanitizer dispensers and will be installing these soon.

Once again, we are looking forward to this next step in a plan to reopen and return to some degree of normalcy.  We will keep you informed should plans change or if we can remove some of the restrictions.  Until then, we would like to thank all residents for their patience, cooperation and understanding.

 

May 29th, 2020
COVID-19 Manitoba Update – Deveraux Apartment Communities Site Office and Amenity Reopening Plan

Dear Residents,

We are excited to communicate with you today about our plans to re-open our common spaces and to resume services that had previously been restricted due to the COVID-19 crisis.  We trust that you can appreciate all of the items that we have had to consider, as we strive to find a balance between customer service and safety in the current environment and our collective 'new normal'.  While things make look slightly different, we are working to reopen some degree of access to our various amenities and to resume our usual level of service.  Thank you for your patience as we navigate these processes.

All plans to reopen these spaces are informed by government guidelines, along with recommendations from Public Health.  With this, access to these facilities and some of the restrictions that will be in place moving forward, are to ensure that we are aligned with current legislation.  We have to be onside with all government instituted guidelines and will gradually resume services, ensuring that we can provide proper supervision, hygiene/disinfecting supplies, and manageable guidelines for each space.  Our commitment has remained unchanged through this crisis; the safety, health and well-being of all residents is our greatest priority. With this, please see an overview of the re-open plan for each common space below:

The Deveraux Apartment Community site offices will reopen to the public on Monday, June 8^th.  While these offices will be open to both current residents and prospective residents, we kindly ask that patrons continue to utilize as many of the online services as possible.  This will limit any possible exposure to our staff, as well as to residents.  As a reminder, you can phone, email, visit our website or use the resident portal for just about any service.  This said, if you need to come in to the office, our team will be glad to see you and assist as needed.

The clubhouses or resident lounge spaces will open on Monday, June 8^th to residents only.  To help manage capacity and demand, while ensuring everyone's health and safety, access to the resident lounge will be restricted to residents only at this time.  Furthermore, the following guidelines will be in place:

• Capacity - The Government of Manitoba restricts the capacity of such spaces to no more than 1 person per 10 square metres.  Thus, each clubhouse will be restricted to the following maximum capacities:
  • 703 Sterling Lyon Parkway (The Summit) – 12 people
  • 355 Bridge Lake Drive (The Pinnacle) – 12 people
  • 360 Bridge Lake Drive (The Pinnacle) – 10 people
• Hours of Operation - The resident lounge space will be open from 8am to 10pm daily.  Fob access will be permitted and residents are expected to self-monitor the capacity rules.
• Time Restrictions - Residents should be mindful of the time spent in the clubhouse and strive not to exceed 1 hour at a time, thus allowing the space to also be enjoyed by others.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting - Residents are expected to participate in the cleaning and disinfecting of any surface or piece of equipment they may touch (i.e. pool cues, countertops, etc.).  There will be hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray accessible for use in the clubhouse only.  Please do not remove from the clubhouse.
• Other Guidelines – Residents are to follow all posted guidelines on site, including those referencing physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc..  Access and enjoyment of the facility are contingent upon all residents following the expectations of use.

The gyms will open on Monday, June 8^th to residents only.  These spaces will also be restricted to residents only at this time.  The following guidelines will be in place:

• Capacity - The Government of Manitoba restricts the capacity of such spaces to no more than 1 person per 10 square metres.  Thus, each gym will be restricted to the following maximum capacities:
  • 703 Sterling Lyon Parkway (The Summit) – 10 people
  • 355 Bridge Lake Drive (The Pinnacle) – 10 people
  • 360 Bridge Lake Drive (The Pinnacle) – 8 people
• Hours of Operation – Gyms are meant to have full time staff if they are to reopen.  Given that each clubhouse gym is not staffed by a full time employee, we will only be able to open the gyms during regular office hours, when Deveraux office staff is on site and able to oversee the facility and clean between periods of use.  We have extended these hours to be 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
• Time Restrictions – To ensure that all residents are able to use the gym, we are restricting usage to 1 hour blocks of time, on the hour.  Access will be granted at the top of the hour (i.e. 8am), with residents needing to vacate the gym 50 minutes later (i.e. 8:50am), allowing 10 minutes for cleaning and ensuring there is no overlap or over capacity.
• Booking Gym Time – We are developing an online booking calendar that will allow residents to book blocks of time.  Further communication will be shared relative to this link and the process shortly.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting - Residents will be expected to clean/disinfect all equipment before and after use.  This includes all surfaces that are also touched.  There will be hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray accessible for use in the gym only.  Please do not remove.
• Other Guidelines – Residents are to follow all posted guidelines on site, including those referencing physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc..  Access and enjoyment of the facility are contingent upon all residents following the expectations of use.

Deveraux typically opens its pool facilities in mid-June.  With the Government of Manitoba announcing that gyms, pools, rinks and other such recreational facilities are permitted to open on June 1^st, the mid-June timeline remains unchanged and we are planning to open the pools on Monday, June 15^th to residents only.  The following guidelines will be in place:

• Capacity - The Government of Manitoba restricts the capacity of pools to no more than 1 person per 10 square metres of pool surface.  Thus, each pool will be restricted to the following maximum capacities:
  • 703 Sterling Lyon Parkway (The Summit) – 7 people in the pool; 20 people on pool deck
  • 360 Bridge Lake Drive (The Pinnacle) – 7 people in the pool; 14 people on pool deck
• Hours of Operation – Pools are meant to have full time staff if they are to reopen.  Given that each pool is not staffed by a full time employee, we will only be able to open the pools during regular office hours, when Deveraux office staff is on site and able to oversee the facility and clean periodically.  We have extended these hours to be 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
• Time Restrictions - Residents should be mindful of the time spent in the pool/pool area and strive not to exceed 1 hour at a time, thus allowing the space to also be enjoyed by others.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting - Residents will be expected to clean/disinfect all equipment before and after use.  This includes all surfaces that are touched (i.e. pool chairs).  There will be hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray accessible for use in the pool area only.  Please do not remove.
• Other Guidelines – Residents are to follow all posted guidelines on site, including those referencing physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc..  Access and enjoyment of the facility are contingent upon all residents following the expectations of use.

We are doing our best to balance the expectations of residents with the guidelines mandated by the Government of Manitoba and Public Health.  This balance means that hours, access and overall use of the common facilities will have some restrictions at this time.  Our sincere hope is that these restrictions will ease and that unrestricted access will once again resume.

We need to remind residents that they use all common facility spaces at their own risk and that inherently there is increased risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus in such public settings and with greater interaction with others (even if at a 2 metre distance).  Deveraux will employ all reasonable procedures that we are capable of to protect your health and safety, but require residents to remain vigilant and to cooperate with the guidelines that have been established by both health authorities and those that we have instituted.  All facilities are monitored by video surveillance and this will help to inform our evaluation of compliance.  Please know that we take our commitment to keeping everyone safe very seriously and that any breach of the guidelines may impact the ability of a resident or all residents to enjoy the amenity facilities.

As you are aware, all non-urgent in suite work orders/repairs were put on hold until restrictions relative to COVID-19 were lifted.  Our team has recorded all work requests and will be addressing these in the coming weeks by order of urgency and also by when it was submitted.  We kindly ask that you be patient as we catch up on these repair requests.  A Customer Service Representative will be in touch with you as your work order to ensure that you are comfortable with one of our Maintenance Associates visiting your suite.  Please trust that they are being screened daily for illness and will practice appropriate hygiene and physical distancing protocols.

Thank you to those residents that took the time to complete the Customer Service Survey relative to the COVID-10 crisis.  We were humbled by the overall response and by the vote of confidence, with over 90% of residents either 'agreeing' or 'strongly agreeing' with our all of our customer service efforts.   We also heard from residents who were looking for increased cleaning protocols and access to sanitizers.  Please trust that we are responding to these requests and have sanitizer dispensers on order, due for installation in June.

In the survey we also had residents comment on their current financial strain due to COVID-19 and job loss.  We encourage anyone who finds themselves challenged to meet the obligation of rent to reach out to our customer service team.  We also want to announce that there will be no rental increases issued for the indefinite future, through the end of 2020.

Once again, we are excited to take this next step in a plan to reopen and return to some degree of normalcy.  We will keep you informed should plans change or if we can remove some of the restrictions.  Until then, we would like to thank all residents for their patience, cooperation and understanding.

 

April 22nd, 2020
Saskatchewan and Manitoba Resident Update: COVID-19

 

The health and safety of our residents and staff remain our top priority and we want to assure you that we are taking the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe.  With this, our offices will remain temporarily closed to the public, including at the end of this month and into May.  Our staff however remain accessible to you by phone, email or via the resident portal.  We will continue to address urgent/emergent maintenance items and rent payment can continue to be made online via RentMoola.

Our intention is to work with all residents to ensure that your housing is secure, despite the challenges that lie ahead.  We know that some of you may be experiencing financial challenges due to the impacts of COVID-19 on the economy and local businesses. Please be assured that we are keeping ourselves abreast of all new developments and programs, and continue to explore options made available by the government for financial assistance to support our residents. 

The Government of Canada has announced a number of measures that may be of assistance.  An overview of these programs can be found here - Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan.  Programs such as the Canada Child Benefit and GST Credit will happen automatically, with those that qualify receiving applicable payments in April and May.

We have learned from several residents that the payment of monies via the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) has been relatively quick, with many residents receiving the $2000 as a direct deposit to their bank account within 2-3 days of applying.  If you qualify for this benefit, but have yet to apply, we recommend doing so as soon as possible.  It now also takes the place of COVID-19 related Employment Insurance claims as well.  You can apply for these benefits here - CERB Application.

As we have previously communicated, The Saskatchewan Landlord Association (SKLA), on behalf of landlords and tenants, has petitioned the Government of Saskatchewan to implement a Rent Bank, similar to other jurisdictions in Canada.  A provincially funded Rent Bank would provide rent relief to tenants by way of an interest free loan over an extended term.  If you want to voice your support for such a program, please contact your local Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) listed below:

• Greens on Gardiner Residents - contact MLA Christine Tell at 306-205-2126 or christinetellmla@accesscomm.ca
• Harbour Landing Residents – contact MLA Muhammed Fiaz at 306-545-4555 or mfiaz.mla@sasktel.net
• Rochdale Crossing Residents – contact MLA Laura Ross at 306-545-6333 or laurarossmla@sasktel.net

The Professional Property Managers of Manitoba (PPMA), on behalf of landlords and tenants, has petitioned the Government of Manitoba to implement a Rent Bank, similar to other jurisdictions in Canada.  A provincially funded Rent Bank would provide rent relief to tenants by way of a grant or an interest free loan over an extended term.  If you want to voice your support for such a program, please contact your local Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) listed below:

• The Summit at Seasons Residents - contact Premier Brian Pallister at 204-945-3714 or premier@leg.gov.mb.ca
• The Pinnacle at Bridgwater Residents – contact MLA Jon Reyes at 204-945-3709 or jon.reyes@leg.gov.mb.ca

We will continue to monitor support made available by both the Federal and Provincial Governments and hope to see expanded supports made available for those who require assistance. If you are experiencing COVID-19-related financial challenges that will affect your ability to pay your rent on May 1^st, please contact Alex (Regina Customer Service Supervisor) at 306-781-7376 or Dylan (Winnipeg Customer Service Representative) at 204-255-7368 (Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm) to discuss available options. It is our intention to work with our residents on a case-by-case basis to get us all through this challenging time.

We wish you and your families well.

 

March 25th, 2020​
COVID-19, Economic Challenges, and Government Financial Assistance Options

Dear Residents, we value our relationships with our residents and wanted to reach out to you during these difficult and uncertain times. The COVID-19 pandemic, and the measures being taken to reduce transmission of the virus, will mean adjustments and challenges for all of us. We want to assure you that the health, safety and well-being of our residents and employees are our top priorities.

We also want you to know that we intend to work with you to ensure your housing is secure, despite the challenges that lie ahead.  We know some of you may be experiencing financial challenges due to the impacts of COVID-19 on the economy and local businesses. Please be assured that we are keeping ourselves abreast of all new developments and programs, and continue to explore options made available by the government for financial assistance to support our residents.  

Government of Canada
The Federal Government has announced a number of measures that may be of assistance.  An overview of these programs can be found here - Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan. Some are currently implemented and others will be introduced soon.  We share the following summary for your reference:

• Employment Insurance (EI) – EI sickness benefits provide up to 15 weeks of income replacement and are available to those unable to work because of illness, injury or quarantine. For these individuals, the one week waiting period has been waived. To explore EI options, click here – EI Benefits and Application.
• Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) – the CERB was announced today, March 25th, by Prime Minister Trudeau.  This new benefit combines two previously announced programs – the Emergency Care Benefit and the Emergency Support Benefit – in an effort to streamline the application process.  The CERB will provide up to $2000 per month for four months to people who have lost their income because of COVID-19. Application for the benefit will be available in early April on the ⦁ CRA website, with funds received approximately 10 days after applying.
• Canada Child Benefit – those receiving the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will see a temporary boost in the coming months.  The government is intending to increase the maximum annual CCB payment amount for the 2019-20 benefit year by $300 per child as part of their May payment.
• GST Credit – for those who are eligible, the government intends to provide a one-time special payment by early May through the Goods and Services Tax Credit (GSTC). This will double the maximum annual GSTC payment amounts for the 2019-20 benefit year. The average boost to income for those benefitting from this measure will be close to $400 for single individuals and $600 for couples.
• Canada Student Loans – the government has placed a six-month interest-free moratorium on the repayment of Canada Student Loans for all individuals currently in the process of repaying these loans.
• Income Tax Deferral – CRA is deferring the income tax filing date for individuals to June 1, with income tax payments owing deferred to August 31. 
• Financial Institutions - the Minister of Finance has been in regular contact with the heads of Canada's large banks, and continues to encourage them to show flexibility in helping their customers whose personal or business finances are affected by COVID-19. Banks in Canada have affirmed their commitment to working with customers to provide flexible solutions, on a case-by-case basis, for managing through hardships caused by this pandemic.  Individuals should contact their banks to discuss the opportunity for relief on credit products. 

Government of Saskatchewan
The Provincial Government has also announced a number of measures that may be of help to Saskatchewan residents.  An overview can be found here – Saskatchewan Financial Support Plan.  We share the following summary for your reference:

• Self-Isolation Support Program - administered by the Ministry of Finance, the Self-Isolation Support Program will provide $450 per week, for a maximum of two weeks or $900.  The Self-Isolation Support Program is targeted at Saskatchewan residents forced to self-isolate that are not covered by recent federally announced employment insurance programs and other supports.
• Utility Interest Deferral – the government announced a crown utility interest deferral program waving interest on late bill payments for up to six months and is effective immediately to all crown utility customers.
• Saskatchewan Student Loans – the government has announced a six-month student loan repayment moratorium, mirroring the federal provision. 
• SKLA Proposed Rent Bank - the Saskatchewan Landlord Association (SKLA), on behalf of landlords and tenants, has petitioned the Government of Saskatchewan to implement a Rent Bank, similar to other jurisdictions in Canada.  A provincially-funded Rent Bank would provide rent relief to tenants by way of an interest-free loan over an extended term.  If you want to voice your support for such a program, please contact your local Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) listed below:
  • Greens on Gardiner Residents - contact MLA Christine Tell at 306-205-2126 or christinetellmla@accesscomm.ca
  • Harbour Landing Residents – contact MLA Muhammed Fiaz at 306-545-4555 or mfiaz.mla@sasktel.net
  • Rochdale Crossing Residents – contact MLA Laura Ross at 306-545-6333 or laurarossmla@sasktel.net

We will be monitoring all of these developments in days to come and hope to see expanded supports made available for those who require assistance. If you are experiencing COVID-19-related financial challenges that will affect your ability to pay your rent on April 1st, please contact Alex (Customer Service Supervisor) at 306-781-7376 for Regina and Dylan (Customer Service Representative) at 204-255-7368 for Winnipeg (Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm) to discuss available options. It is our intention to work with our residents on a case-by-case basis to get us all through this challenging time. We wish you and your families well.

 

March 20th, 2020
Social Distancing - Site Offices and Essential Services

Dear Residents, we continue to monitor the developments of the coronavirus outbreak in an effort to ensure that we have sufficient information and guidance to keep our residents and employees safe and healthy.  With increasing COVID-19 cases across Canada and the State of Emergency declared in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, we are writing to share further measures that we are taking to limit contact between residents and employees, creating greater social distance.  We appreciate your understanding, cooperation, and patience as we collectively navigate this uncharted territory.  Please make note of the following:

Site Offices – Closed to the Public

• From Monday, March 23rd onward, and for an indefinite period of time, all site offices will be closed to the public.
• We will be creating greater social distance amongst our staff at our offices, reducing the number of employees on site.
• While some office employees will remain on-site to provide essential services (i.e. answering calls), others will be working remotely.
• During this period, we will strive to maintain our services with as much normalcy as possible.

Site Offices – Essential Services

• Given the reduced onsite staff we kindly ask that you limit physical visits to the office.  While a staff member may be inside the office, they have been instructed, for the safety of both themselves and residents, to not open the exterior door to the public.  Instead, our employees will readily assist you through other mediums.  These include:
  • Call or email – https://www.apartments.deveraux.ca/contact-us
• There are a variety of tasks that do not require you to come into the office physically.  Some of these, and possible alternative modes of contact, include:
  • Notices – please email. 
  • Payments – please use Rent Moola. There are no fees associated with paying from your bank account.  
  • General Inquiries – please call or email. 
  • Concerns/Complaints – please call or email and please note that with more people staying home and kids out of school, there may be a few more disruptions than normal.  We ask that everyone be kind, considerate and patient.

Maintenance – Essential Services

• With increasing cases of community transmission across Canada, we want to ensure that all residents and employees are safe, with limited exposure to one another.  Maintenance staff and other service providers in your apartment may present a risk to both you and them. Given this, maintenance staff have been informed that only essential maintenance services are provided until further notice.
• Essential maintenance services are those of an urgent or emergent nature.  As an example, a dripping faucet would not be something that is essential to address at this time.  However, a lack of hot water would be. Please use your discretion when contacting our maintenance team, for your health and safety, as well as theirs.
• You can reach our maintenance team in the following ways:
  • Resident Portal – please use the Resident Portal to submit maintenance requests. If you do not have access please contact the office by phone or email and the staff will assist you in setting up an account.
  • Email – while the portal is preferred, you can also email
    • Regina – yqrinfo@deveraux.ca
    • Winnipeg – wpginfo@deveraux.ca  
  • Emergency After Hours Call Centre – in the event of an emergency please call
    • Regina – 306-337-3704
    • Winnipeg – 1-877-337-0321
• Our maintenance team will be in contact with you after you submit a request.  We thank you in advance for your understanding and patience as we prioritize requests.

Reminders
As we can all appreciate, everyone is trying to do their best to cope with the uncertain circumstances around the COVID-19 outbreak.  We ask that all residents demonstrate kindness, compassion and patience during this time.  Living in close proximity to one another can be challenging at times, but with consideration for one another, we believe we can get through this together.  With this, please be reminded of the following:

• Children Playing – children are not to be playing in the corridors.  Not only is this disruptive to other residents, but it also poses a health risk to all.  
• Household Waste – please do not leave bags of trash in the hallway.  If for some reason you need assistance in getting it to the garbage chute or bin, please ask a neighbor or a Deveraux team member.
• Limit Visitors – given the State of Emergency and requests to lessen social interaction, we recommend residents limit visitors to the property.
• Cleaning and Hygiene – our team has stepped up efforts to clean high touch surfaces and common areas.  To ensure that these efforts are effective we require all residents to continue to practice good hand hygiene and cough etiquette.  We all need to do our part!

Elderly or 'Vulnerable Population' Residents
Outside of maintenance and/or administrative services, we want to ensure all residents that we are here to help.  If you are elderly, part of a 'vulnerable population' as it relates to this illness or facing other challenges at this time, please reach out to our Customer Service Representatives and we will strive to assist you with your requests, be it grocery pick up, meal delivery or other.

We will continue to inform all residents if there are any new developments impacting our properties. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work collectively to keep everyone safe and healthy.  Should you need assistance or have any questions/comments, please feel free to contact us: https://www.apartments.deveraux.ca/contact-us.
 

March 16th, 2020
Clubhouse Closures – Preventative Measures Relative to COVID-19

Dear Residents, your health, safety and well-being continue to be our primary focus.  To ensure that we are informed in our decision-making and response to the COVID-19 outbreak, we have been monitoring developments around the world and across Canada.  We are also following the guidance and recommendations of the Province of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. With this, we have decided to action further preventative measures and close all amenity spaces (clubhouses and gyms) effective 4pm Tuesday, March 17th.  These closures will be for an indefinite period.  During this time our onsite leasing offices will remain open and accessible to residents.

The City of Regina and Winnipeg have closed all public facilities including recreation centers, pools and libraries in order to limit exposure to COVID-19.  Local health and fitness providers have done the same, including GoodLife Fitness who recently announced a Canada-wide temporary closure.  Given potential exposure to the virus and the advice by all authorities to create social distance, we felt it prudent to follow suit and to also close our common area facilities. We hope that these are temporary closures and that paired with other measures, we are able to keep our residents and our employees safe and healthy.

We will inform all residents if there are any new developments impacting our properties.  If you would like more information, the following links are up to date and accurate sources of news and developments related to COVID-19:

• World Health Organization (WHO) - https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
• Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) - https://www.canada.ca/en/public...
• Government of Saskatchewan -  https://www.saskatchewan.ca/coronavirus#utm_campaign
• Government of Manitoba - https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/coronavirus/

We would like to thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work collectively to keep everyone safe and healthy.  Should you need assistance or have any questions/comments, please feel free to contact us: https://www.apartments.deveraux.ca/contact-us.

 

March 13th, 2020
Precautionary Measures Relative to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Dear Residents, your safety, health, and well-being are of the utmost importance to us.  We understand that there are many concerns around the COVID-19 outbreak and we want to assure you that we are doing all that we can to protect our residents and employees while striving to prevent the spread of the disease. We are committed to doing our part to keep you healthy and will continue to communicate any changes in service to you as quickly as possible.  In addition to our existing cleaning, disinfecting and maintenance procedures, we are also taking the following measures:

Cleaning and Education

• Increased frequency and deep cleaning of high touch and hard surfaces in common areas (i.e. countertops, doorknobs, elevator buttons, etc.).
• Hand sanitizer dispensers are to be installed in common areas (leasing offices and clubhouses).  These items are currently on backorder from our supplier, scheduled to arrive late next week.
• Additional signage is posted to educate on how to prevent the spread of the infection (i.e. hand hygiene and cough etiquette posters).

Staff Precautions

• All maintenance and cleaning staff are equipped with disposable gloves and disinfectants and are instructed to discard gloves after each use.
• All staff have been briefed on hygiene measures and basic infection prevention.
• All staff are cross-trained to ensure critical building functions are maintained in an emergency.
• All staff have been instructed to stay home if they are feeling sick.
• All staff have been instructed to limit physical contact with others in the workplace. Handshake greetings will be replaced with verbal acknowledgment.

Building Operations

• We have reviewed our business continuity plans with staff and external vendors to ensure critical functions continue to be met in the event of staff absences.
• Our amenity spaces (i.e. clubhouses, gyms) will remain open for the time being.  If you choose to use these areas, please ensure that you are keeping them clean with the provided disinfectant materials.  We will monitor recommendations provided by governmental and health authorities and if deemed appropriate, may need to close all common spaces as a precaution.  If this need arises, we will inform all residents. 

Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is a community effort.  You can help us to prevent the spread of the disease by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently, following proper hand-washing procedures:
  • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95% alcohol
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