Features

Flames destroyed most of a large carport behind one of Berkeley’s tenancy-in-common (TIC) buildings last Friday, consuming two cars in the process. 

“We estimate damage to the structure at $100,000 and $25,000 to the contents,” said Deputy Fire Chief David P. Orth. 

Firefighters were called at 1:22 p.m., and arrived at 2415 Russell St. to find the roof of the lengthy structure behind the rear of the main dwelling building in flames. 

“The fire ran all along the covered roof,” said Orth. “We ended up having to chainsaw off about half of the roof.” 

In addition to the roof and the two cars, the flames also consumed a bank of storage lockers and their contents. 

The flames were under control within the first 20 minutes, Orth said, but getting at the remnants inside the open roof structure required the chainsaws. 

“The last unit left about 3:30,” he said. 

Unlike condos, where tenants own the individual dwelling units, TICs are held in common by all the owner-occupants.