‘Significant’ construction done without permits at 2 homes in Surrey, B.C., officials say

The same home at 12464 77A Ave. in Surrey, B.C., is seen in 2020 (left) and 2025, in images provided in a city report.

Municipal officials have flagged two homes in Surrey, B.C., where they say “significant” construction was done without the required permits.

City council directed staff to file notices on the titles for both residences—located at 12464 77A Ave. and 13466 87A Ave.—on Monday to inform potential buyers of unauthorized structures on the properties.

In a statement Tuesday, Mayor Brenda Locke said the decision reflects the city’s “zero-tolerance approach when it comes to illegal construction.”

“The city will continue to prioritize residents’ safety and require property owners to comply with regulations,” Locke added. “This helps maintain consistent standards across neighbourhoods and ensures the integrity of the city’s building process.”

The unpermitted work at both properties included multiple dwelling units, according to the city.

Officials said two-storey additions were built on the west side and rear of the 77A Avenue home, plus an addition to the garage and a front deck. Two additions were constructed on the 87A Avenue home as well, along with an accessory building and two decks.

In both cases, city staff “do not see a realistic path for the owners to obtain a building permit to retain the unpermitted works,” according to reports presented at council.

“The construction has progressed to a point where many essential elements are now obscured, preventing the inspections staff consider necessary to confirm safety and compliance with the Building Bylaw and British Columbia Building Code,” the reports read.

Officials said suspicious construction projects can be reported to the City of Surrey’s bylaw department.