Some of the residents of a Howie Avenue apartment that caught fire early Saturday morning have been allowed to return home, but it could be months before the building can be completely occupied.
Coquitlam fire chief Wade Pierlot said the building was constructed in three portions and those living in the centre and eastern sections were able to return home Monday night.
However, the people residing in the 24 units on the west side near where the blaze originated will need to find other accommodations.
Some residents were unhappy with the news, Pierlot said.
"They are at the end of their patience," he said. "I have seen this before. It is the most traumatic event most people will ever be exposed to."
The residents displaced by the blaze have been offered hotel rooms, but those accommodations end Wednesday. After that, people will need to find their own places to stay until the building is repaired.
One woman died in the fire, which started in her second floor suits shortly after 4 a.m. on Saturday morning.
The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
