The City of Surrey said Monday that it is ready to start filing notices on home titles for illegal construction in the city, which is a big problem in the large South Asian community in Surrey. Surrey Council said it has directed staff to file notice on titles to two properties, 5858 140 Street and 16653 31B Avenue, where the owners have illegally constructed and occupied the buildings without permits and in violation of the City’s Building Bylaw. "Today's decisions by Surrey City Council reaffirm our commitment to curb illegal construction that jeopardizes the safety of our community," said Mayor Brenda Locke. "By taking action against these properties, we protect not only the character of our neighborhoods, but also the well-being of our residents. I want to acknowledge the Illegal Construction Enforcement Team for their efforts in holding accountable those who attempt to circumvent necessary permits and safety regulations.”

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff

SURREY- The City of Surrey said Monday that it is ready to start filing notices on home titles for illegal construction in the city, which is a big problem in the large South Asian community in Surrey.

Surrey Council said it has directed staff to file notice on titles to two properties, 5858 140 Street and 16653 31B Avenue, where the owners have illegally constructed and occupied the buildings without permits and in violation of the City’s Building Bylaw.

"Today's decisions by Surrey City Council reaffirm our commitment to curb illegal construction that jeopardizes the safety of our community," said Mayor Brenda Locke. "By taking action against these properties, we protect not only the character of our neighborhoods, but also the well-being of our residents. I want to acknowledge the Illegal Construction Enforcement Team for their efforts in holding accountable those who attempt to circumvent necessary permits and safety regulations.”

The notice on titles are a result of a Special Council Meeting on Dec. 9, 2024, where Surrey City Council voted unanimously in favour of filing the notices on titles to the properties. The notices will alert potential buyers, lenders, and insurers about the illegal construction and the potential risks associated with the property.

A notice on title under Section 57 of the Community Charter is a legal measure used by a city to inform the public, including potential purchasers, about unauthorized structures on a property that were built without the necessary building permits or inspections. It serves several purposes, including:

•         Encouraging Compliance: It encourages owners to bring their property into compliance with the City’s Building Bylaw, to ensure homes are built to the minimum health and safety requirements. The legislation provides that the notice will be removed once compliance is achieved.
•         Transparency and Awareness: It acts as a warning about unauthorized structures, protecting prospective buyers and informing the public.
•         Enforcement and Accountability: It emphasizes the City's commitment to enforcing its Building Bylaw by holding property owners accountable for illegal construction activities.

The City of Surrey's Illegal Construction Enforcement Team, established in 2022, is dedicated to enforcing the City's bylaws and targeting residential construction that is done without permits, inspections, or compliance with safety standards. The City of Surrey has also increased fines for illegal building activities and sought compliance through court action.

To file a complaint about construction you suspect has been done without permits, email bylawcomplaint@surrey.ca or call 604-591-4370. Complaints can also be submitted online through the Report a Problem application.