HOUSTON, TX – Dr. Matthews toured Vance Plaza Apartments, also known as Vance Gardens, located at 7301 Jensen Drive, alongside residents who alleged unsafe and unsanitary living conditions at the property during what she described as the first apartment visit under Houston’s newly passed slumlord ordinance.

During the walkthrough, residents pointed to alleged structural damage, mold, plumbing issues, sewage concerns, pest infestations, damaged stairways, exposed areas around units, and water intrusion inside apartments.

One resident alleged management attempted to evict her after a dispute involving rent payments and stated a judge later dismissed the case. Another resident alleged tenants were unable to access their mail after mailboxes were moved and service was allegedly stopped.

While walking behind the property, Dr. Matthews and others reported smelling gas near a meter and contacted the Houston Fire Department. Individuals at the scene stated they could hear and smell a possible gas leak near one of the buildings.

Houston firefighters later arrived at the property, and individuals at the scene stated CenterPoint Energy had been contacted.

One resident identified the property management company as “Stagecoach management” during the walkthrough.

Dr. Matthews stated she plans to bring city officials to the property next week as additional complaints and inspections move forward