Re: “The challenge of East Clayton,” The Leader, May 24.
I live in East Clayton and I regret buying here almost six years ago.
Unfortunately, I live near a row of homes with coach homes and basement suites, the majority of them have both suites rented out – which is illegal. The owners and their tenants do not park in their garages or on the extra outside parking spots that are provided on some lots, which makes the neighbourhood a congested mess. I cannot leave my home on the weekends or evenings as I will not have a place to park in front of my home.
I do not fill my double garage with useless junk that I do not use. I actually park two cars in it. I pay my fair share of the property taxes and follow the rules and do not have a suite. I am angered every day knowing that I am stuck here for the foreseeable future. Where else is there to go that is decent and affordable close to work and my children’s schools? Nowhere.
Tell me, dear city council – what is wrong with fining these people with multiple suites $200 a day like Delta is doing? Hit the owners that are not following the rules right were it hurts... their bank accounts!
What happens when there is a fire because of faulty wiring in the illegal multiple suite and the house that is less then 10 feet away next door burns down and people die because you didn’t enforce the bylaws?
Please enforce the bylaws. Hopefully when West Clayton gets developed in the next few years, there will be no coach homes, driveways that fit more than two cars and wider streets.
I regret buying here and as soon as I have a chance I am out of here and probably out of Surrey for life, which is sad, because I was born and raised here.
Crystal Litonjua
Realtors could help
If Surrey were serious about controlling the blight of illegal suites, one simple measure could be undertaken upon the listing and sale of a house. The sale/purchase contract should stipulate the residence is in full compliance of city suite bylaws.
Realtors and inspectors would then be fully responsible to ensure that no sale goes through without such bylaw adherence.
Don Sukkau