That is impossible, it's a two story building and the oil was wall to wall on every steps and he also carefully put oil on another section of stairway leading to the appartements in the basement. And when my neighbor arrived from the basement (doing laundery) she saw him pouring it then run away quickly.

Actually the police thought it's a mix, like there was another substance mixed in the oil.

Thanks for the suggestion about a Simplex style lock, I'll suggest it to the owner and my neighbors.

Frankie

A small fire extinguisher is only good for about 15 seconds.

A B/C extinguisher is useful for flammable liquids and organic solvents (the B part), and electrical fires (the C part).

I would stay in contact with the police and fire departments and ask if they have made any discoveries in relation to this incident.

Could this have been an irate previous tenant?

If your landlord doesn't want to install a lock on the door, pin him down and insist on knowing WHY he doesn't want one (maybe as a group). I'm not familiar with lawsuit laws in Canada, but if he takes no steps to prevent a repeat episode, he may be setting himself up for a major personal loss.

Are there any other issues going on with this place? If so, could they be connected?

Sue

See if He will put in a loch if the tenants buy it. Get yourself a few extra fire extinguishers, and make sure the smoke alarm is up to snuff. You may want to install a smoke alarm by the apartment door. Plan on egress besides through the apartment door if needed. Up your renters insurance coverage asap.

Be sure you have some safe way out besides your apartment door. Get a rope ladder, for instance.

And look for a new place to live.

There are many freaks as in all big cities. There was a time when a homeless would sleep and [censored] inside the building. I'm not aware of other particular issues...

Frankie