September 17, 2026
Fire & Displacement Resources
Information for Bowie residents affected by the fire. Check management’s latest written notice for current accommodation and reimbursement instructions.
What happened
The Austin Fire Department documented a September 17, 2026 fire in a utility room at 311 Bowie Street. Its report describes overheated wires or equipment and says sprinklers confined the fire. It also records that building management needed to address displaced-resident housing and restoration work. Read the Austin Fire Department report.
Photos submitted by residents
These images show scenes residents shared in connection with the incident. Captions describe what is visible; they do not establish a timeline.
If you are displaced
- Save written notices. Keep accommodation instructions, reimbursement terms, emails, texts, and proposed agreements.
- Keep itemized records. Save lodging folios, meal and transportation receipts, dates, and records of payments or credits.
- Read before signing. Review any lease cancellation or release carefully. Consult a qualified attorney or tenant legal aid provider for advice.
Document your expenses
The separate Expense Log helps record costs, attach receipts, and export an itemized CSV and receipt PDF. Check the entries and totals before using the exports.
Using the log does not submit a reimbursement request. Send records through the applicable submission process yourself.
Reimbursement and written terms
Compare expenses with management’s most recent written instructions. Keep copies of what you submit and any response, including whether payment is proposed as cash, direct payment, or a rent ledger credit.
BTU advocates prompt cash or direct reimbursement without requiring residents to move out or sign a broad release. Management’s terms may differ.
More resources
This page provides general information and advocacy, not legal advice. BTU is an independent resident group and is not affiliated with The Bowie, RPM Living, or ownership.