HARRIS COUNTY – Dr. Matthews is calling for county leaders to investigate conditions at Country Living Apartments after touring multiple units where residents described alleged health and safety concerns, including possible gas leaks, mold, sewage odors, water damage and deteriorating living conditions.
During the walkthrough, residents alleged they have repeatedly complained to management about unsafe conditions but have seen little improvement. One resident, who said she previously worked for the property owner cleaning apartments, alleged she was asked to prepare units she believed were not fit for occupancy.
Residents also alleged problems including leaking ceilings, water damage, smoke damage from a previous fire, persistent mold, insect infestations and foul odors. One resident said a leaking pipe damaged a clothes dryer, while another alleged a neighboring apartment emitted a strong sewage odor that could be smelled from surrounding units. One resident also said they pay $940 per month in rent despite the conditions.
During the visit, Dr. Matthews said she detected what she believed to be the odor of natural gas near a water heater and said the issue should be reported to CenterPoint Energy and the fire department for evaluation. Residents claimed they had previously reported concerns about a possible gas leak.
Several residents said they accepted the apartments because they had difficulty finding housing due to prior felony convictions. Others alleged they were shown different units before signing leases and were later placed into apartments they believed were in significantly worse condition.
Dr. Matthews said the apartment complex is located outside the Houston city limits and falls under Harris County jurisdiction. She said she plans to send video from the tour to Harris County commissioners, including Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, as well as the Harris County Judge, requesting action.
“This should not be happening,” Dr. Matthews said at the conclusion of the tour, adding that she also plans to advocate for stronger county regulations addressing apartment conditions in unincorporated areas.
