Purcellville apartment residents evacuated after fire code violations

The Purcellville East Apartments Complex in Loudoun County stood empty this week after the fire department posted keep out signs following a failed safety inspection. The USDA managed the property as part of its affordable housing program for low income families, but residents now face displacement entering November.

Ana Heremic, a resident for two years, described years of neglected maintenance including black mold, broken air conditioning, and intermittent hot water. She recalled the stress of the rapid evacuation on Thursday. Heremic noted that as a refugee from the Bosnian genocide, watching neighbors pack their belongings while crying triggered strong emotional responses.

The fire marshal’s office listed specific defects that contributed to the failed inspection. These issues included a malfunctioning fire alarm and combustible materials stored under the stairwell. Inspectors also flagged the second floor stairs, which appeared to be decaying and rotting. The office reported that no property manager was present to meet with inspectors during the Thursday visit.

William Fekas, the landlord, told News4 by phone that the building is safe and that his staff has addressed mold issues in the past. He admitted the stairs need repair but argued he was not given a chance to fix them before the evacuation order. Fekas said he has already spent $100,000 on repairs and is running low on funds because the USDA allegedly prevents him from raising rents.

Fekas also stated he has tried to sell the complex for several years but has faced bureaucratic hurdles from the USDA. The agency has not yet responded to requests for comment on the situation.

Virginia Congressman Suhas Subramanyam is calling for a federal investigation into the management failures. He wants to know what went wrong with the oversight of the affordable housing project. Local government officials and several nonprofits are currently assisting residents who are staying in temporary housing.

Residents remain without a permanent home as the county and aid groups coordinate next steps. The complex remains closed to tenants while the fire department maintains its warnings.