As N.L. struggles to house people with complex needs, a homeowner feels caught in the middle

Sheltered, a CBC Investigates series, examines the housing crisis in Newfoundland and Labrador — telling the stories of the people living it, while scrutinizing the policies and politics behind it.

They are considered difficult to house: individuals whose needs are so complex the typical rental market is unattainable and for whom communal living, like shelters, isn't ideal. 

The little-known solution: a Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services rental subsidy provided to private landlords and property managers with sometimes sky-high rates — a system separate from private shelters.

The health authority defends the amount of money it — along with two other government departments — spends, on the subidy, saying it's a critical program that keeps people housed.

But one property owner and a provincial politician say there must be a better way to balance housing needs for vulnerable people and those of the wider community, with greater accountability and oversight. 

For the last three years, music teacher Susan Evoy has been living next to one of these rental properties, in a duplex in downtown St. John's.

"The government is hemorrhaging money to house these people without proper supports, without wraparound supports," Evoy said.

"And it's a place that's derelict … and I'm trapped in the middle."

It's not just the condition of the attached house that's a problem, Evoy said, but the prevalence of the violence, drug use and instability that comes with the tenants who live there.

CBC News is not disclosing the address of the property but reviewed dozens of surveillance videos captured outside Evoy's property, which speak to the severity of her living conditions. 

"I'm going to slice your f--king head off," a man screams in one video, as he paces outside. 

He turns toward Evoy's door and adds, "And you, too, if you want to think I'm talking about you."

Others show a series of shocking scenes. Hordes of teenagers — some who appear on the border of childhood — coming and going at all hours. A male tenant wielding what appears to be an axe and threatening those who come close. Items thrown from windows. Walls shaking. Screams. Visits from the police.

"I do not feel safe in my own home," Evoy said.