“I’m Still Living In This”: Troy Resident Says Smoke Damage Remains Months After Apartment Fire

Troy, Mo. — A resident at Troy Villa Apartments says he is still dealing with smoke damage inside his apartment more than four months after a furnace fire forced emergency crews to respond to the complex during freezing temperatures earlier this year.

The resident contacted Lincoln CountyWatch this week claiming repairs and cleanup efforts tied to the January fire have still not been completed despite repeated calls to management and multiple contractor visits to the apartment.

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According to the resident, the fire happened inside his apartment during below-freezing temperatures and caused smoke damage throughout the unit. He says the furnace was eventually repaired roughly two weeks later, but alleges smoke-related damage inside the apartment remains unresolved.

Photos provided to Lincoln CountyWatch appear to show heavy buildup on air filters, dark discoloration on portions of the ceiling, and additional conditions the resident believes are connected to the fire and smoke exposure.

Comparison of old and new air filters following the January 30, 2026 fire at Troy Villa Apartments.

Filter installed April 13, 2026, with buildup shown through present day.

Soot buildup visible on the refrigerator following the January 30, 2026 fire at Troy Villa Apartment

Soot buildup visible inside the shower and bathtub area following the January 30, 2026 fire

Soot buildup visible along the ceiling corner inside the apartment following fire.

Soot buildup visible around an electrical outlet following the fire.

Poster lifted showing visible soot difference between the covered and exposed paint.

The resident claims several companies have visited the apartment over the past few months to inspect the damage and provide bids for cleaning and repair work, but says no repairs have been approved or completed.

He also alleges repeated calls to apartment management have gone unanswered despite ongoing attempts to get updates on the situation.

In addition to concerns involving his apartment, the resident claimed other tenants within the complex have experienced separate maintenance concerns, including alleged roof leaks and possible mold-related issues.

Lincoln CountyWatch reached out to apartment management regarding the resident’s concerns and allegations. We left a message and was told the director would be in touch.

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This story will be updated if additional information or a response from management is provided.

Residents with concerns regarding apartment conditions can contact Lincoln CountyWatch by calling or texting 636-377-0201 or emailing tips@LincolnCountyWatch.com.

Lincoln CountyWatch is an independent news organization and is not affiliated with any government agency.

Story by John Eads