The Housing Agency of Jamaica Limited (HAJL) extends heartfelt solidarity to all
Jamaicans impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The housing stock in western Jamaica,
where the hurricane made landfall, has sustained significant damage. Among the
affected developments is the Edmund Ridge Estates Housing Project, currently being
implemented in phases under a Joint Venture Agreement with our partner, Henan Fifth
Construction Group Corporation Limited (Henan).
HAJL and Henan recognize the distress experienced by homeowners and residents of
Edmund Ridge Estates Phases 1 and 2, whose units sustained damage—primarily to
roofing structures—during the hurricane’s passage. The disruption, compounded by
damage to electrical and water distribution networks, is deeply regretted.
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, HAJL communicated directly with all homeowners
via email, expressing empathy and encouraging them to engage their mortgage
institutions regarding peril insurance coverage, which is typically included in mortgage
arrangements. Homeowners were advised to initiate discussions to determine available
support or claims.
It is important to note that Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 5 hurricane,
with recorded wind speeds of 185 mph (298 km/h). Current Jamaican building codes
require structures to withstand wind speeds of 155 mph. The Edmund Ridge units were
designed and constructed in accordance with these standards. In light of the
unprecedented impact of Hurricane Melissa, HAJL supports the national consensus
that these codes must now be revisited.
For clarity, while construction and formal assignment of Phase 3 of the development
were well advanced, no units from this phase had been delivered to purchasers at the
time of the hurricane. These units remain under the control of HAJL. To ensure a
thorough assessment of their structural integrity, HAJL has engaged with one of
Jamaica’s top engineering firms to conduct a comprehensive technical review and
provide a formal report.
Following the hurricane, and as soon as safe access was possible, HAJL and Henan
conducted a joint site visit on Monday, November 3, 2025. Assistance was rendered to
affected homeowners in Phases 1 and 2, including debris clearance and the provision
of water. A limited quantity of tarpaulins was also distributed to assist with temporary
roof coverage. As part of our ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts, HAJL
will be providing an additional 100 tarpaulins to support affected households.
Restoration of water and electricity services is being actively managed by the National
Water Commission and the Jamaica Public Service Company, both of which are
working diligently to restore full service.
The Housing Agency of Jamaica Limited remains committed to transparent
communication and to supporting affected communities during this period of recovery.
– Housing Agency of Jamaica Limited (HAJL)
Building Jamaica. One community at a time. 🇯�