Key Takeaways:
- The city of Surrey, B.C. is taking a zero-tolerance approach to illegal construction, with a focus on enforcing compliance and prioritizing resident safety.
- Two properties have been issued notices on title due to unpermitted construction, with owners expected to demolish the unauthorized work.
- The city has concluded three illegal construction files through court-ordered demolitions this year.
- Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal construction to the city, with permitted construction displaying visible permits on the property.
- The city’s illegal construction enforcement team was launched in 2022 to address the issue, which is six times more likely to result in serious safety issues.
Introduction to the Issue
The city of Surrey, B.C. is cracking down on illegal construction, with city council voting to file notices on title for two properties where owners have built and occupied structures without permits. This move is part of the city’s efforts to enforce compliance with building bylaws and prioritize resident safety. According to Mayor Brenda Locke, the city is taking a "zero-tolerance approach" to tackling illegal construction, which can pose serious safety risks to occupants and neighboring residents.
The Properties in Question
The two properties in question, located at 16055 60 Ave. and 16835 26 Ave., have both been found to have unauthorized construction. The first property had a permit for a barn, but the structure was converted into an apartment-like building with five dwelling units and multiple other rooms. The second property had no building permit at all, but its owner constructed a two-storey detached structure in the backyard, which was occupied without an occupancy permit. In both cases, the construction has progressed to a point where essential elements are obscured, preventing necessary inspections to confirm safety and compliance with building codes.
Consequences for Property Owners
The owners of the two properties have been informed that they will be expected to demolish the unpermitted work. This is in line with the city’s efforts to enforce compliance and protect resident safety. The city has also announced that three other illegal construction files have been concluded through court-ordered demolitions this year. These demolitions were ordered after the city took legal action against property owners who had constructed unauthorized structures, including additions to main residences, laneways, and accessory buildings.
The Importance of Reporting Suspected Illegal Construction
The city relies on concerned neighbors and residents to report suspected illegal construction. Sean Simpson, acting director of Surrey’s building division, encourages residents to report any suspicious activity, saying "if you see it, report it." Permitted construction will typically display visible permits on the property, making it easier for residents to identify unauthorized work. By reporting suspected illegal construction, residents can help the city identify and address safety risks, and ensure that all construction meets building codes and bylaws.
The City’s Enforcement Efforts
The city of Surrey launched its illegal construction enforcement team in 2022, with the goal of addressing the issue of unpermitted construction. At the time, then-mayor Doug McCallum noted that illegal unpermitted construction is six times more likely to result in serious safety issues. The city’s efforts to enforce compliance and prioritize resident safety are ongoing, with a focus on educating residents and property owners about the importance of obtaining necessary permits and following building codes. By taking a proactive approach to addressing illegal construction, the city aims to create a safer and more compliant community for all residents.