Could be a year before some Knoxdale-Merivale residents return to homes

A lot of work is still to be done, when it comes to cleaning up after the September tornado in a few Ottawa communities.

In Arlington Woods, Craig Henry, and Tanglewood some residents are expected to be out of their homes for up to a year.

“There has to be, almost, a complete rebuild of the home, or roof replacement or extensive repairs to the siding,” Ward 9 Councillor Keith Egli told Mark Sutcliffe on Ottawa Today. “There are some multi-residential duellings that still don't have hot water.”

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He explained, an underlining issue residents have faced is dealing with their insurers.

“It really depends on who your insurer carrier is, some have been excellent in terms of getting in their quickly, making repairs, providing reimbursements. Other companies not so much,” said Egli.

It's expected to be a long ride before some residents can return home, and it can be difficult for those families with the holidays approaching.

Members in the community have been working on helping those in need, as a way to keep their spirits high.

“There are various community groups that are putting together Christmas hampers for people or put together toys for the kids,” Egli said. “That sort of thing so that life can be as normal as possible while they are out of their homes.”