Delay in construction prompts lawsuit against city, consulting firm
A contractor is suing the City of Winnipeg and a consulting firm over permitting delays that impacted a townhouse complex construction.Summary
Prairie Point Inc. contractors have filed a lawsuit against the City of Winnipeg and Affinity Architecture, alleging permitting issues caused significant delays and financial losses in the construction of a townhouse complex in the Prairie Point neighbourhood. The lawsuit claims the city initially approved permits but later asserted the project violated building codes, specifically regarding fire alarm systems and unit egress. Prairie Point alleges the city was negligent in its permit review process and repeatedly changed its requirements, even rejecting professional opinions and third-party engineer reports. The company sought unspecified damages and costs related to the delays and expenses incurred to address the city’s concerns. While final occupancy was eventually granted in February 2025 after accepting an alternative fire alarm solution, the lawsuit details a series of frustrating back-and-forths with the city and claims Affinity Architecture was liable for ensuring the project adhered to building codes.
(Source：Winnipeg Free Press)