Columbus orders condemnation, vacating of some Williamsburg Court apartments

Columbus officials are releasing more information about the failed inspections that led to the condemnation of several apartment buildings.

According to the city, inspectors found four buildings at Williamsburg Way Apartments on Williamsburg Court to be unsafe and unfit for human habitation. The affected structures were buildings 18, 19, 20 and 26. City officials say that the conditions include flooding, standing water in some units and concerns over the electrical system.

The determination was based on city inspections with input from the fire department and led to the orders that the structures can not be occupied until the issues are addressed and they comply with the local and state ordinances.

The condemnation order says that there was immediate risk of electrocution or fires due to the failure of safety systems in buildings affecting 24 total units

All residents of buildings 18 and 19 were ordered to vacate by 5 on Monday afternoon and buildings 20 and 26 by 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Inspectors found high humidity and standing water in the mechanical rooms and the presence of Federal Pacific electrical panels which have been banned because the circuit breakers may not trip. Because apartments use central plumbing, a deadly electrical charge could travel throughout the building causing a fire or electrocution. Inspectors also found corroded grounding systems bonded to gas or water lines.

Inspectors also noted a history of failed attempts to have the panels voluntarily replaced.

The city is working with the property owners and management to address the issues. Officials say their focus is on ensuring public safety and compliance with applicable law.

You can read the entire report here: Williamsburg Complete BOW Request 5.6.2026 (PDF file)

The city’s Board of Works ratified the condemnation decision yesterday.