Residents of Minot’s North Highlands Apartments have been given the OK to return to their homes.

The 152-unit apartment complex on 30th Avenue NW was the scene of a fire in the elevator equipment room July 10. The fire was put out without any injuries occurring and residents remained in their apartments. However, four dryer fires occurred over the following two days which led to an evacuation order issued by Minot Fire Marshal Brian Anderson.

It was determined that the elevator equipment room fire was caused by water entering an electrical box that handled distribution throughout the apartment complex, including the dryers. As a precaution electrical service was disconnected to most of the complex while a solution to the cause of the fires, and the integrity of the electrical wiring, was addressed.

In the meantime residents were forced to find housing elsewhere. They were allowed to return to North Highlands Friday evening following the evacuation that covered nine nights.

Anderson had earlier assured residents that the building would not be occupied until it was safe to do so. He added that “there will be brand new underground wiring, service main, breakers and the whole works. All will be brand new and approved products.”

After the final inspection Friday following the completion of repairs at North Highlands, Anderson and the City of Minot building inspector gave the go-ahead for residents to return. A spokesperson for North Highlands offered an apology to all displaced residents and added that their patience was appreciated “while working with the fire marshal to provide a safe home for them to move back into.”