Tensions are rising as furniture accumulates outside a residential building in Ottawa on Richmond Road, where tenants are receiving eviction notices to vacate for renovations.

Tenant Christopher Chitouras said, "It's shocking to receive a notice from the new landlord."

Chitouras has lived in the 16-story building with his 72-year-old mother for over 10 years, paying $1,300 for a two-bedroom apartment.

He discovered last month that the building had been sold, and he received an eviction notice last week so the new owner could renovate it.

Chitouras said, "We're looking at $2,400 for a two-bedroom unit, so everything is up in the air."

Tenants say their options are to terminate the lease and receive $5,000 or to return and pay hundreds of dollars more in rent.

Teresa Kavana, a member of the Ottawa City Council, said, "This building is in a very convenient location." "It will be within walking distance of the transit station, and it's clear the property owner thinks they can get more rent, and that's the point."