SURREY, B.C. — Conservative Surrey mayoral candidate Honveer Singh Randhawa has unveiled a proposed Compassionate Compliance Plan aimed at helping homeowners resolve stop-work orders and property compliance issues without facing what he describes as excessive financial penalties.
Randhawa said that if elected mayor, he would introduce a policy focused on assisting residents in bringing their properties into compliance through guidance, safety inspections, expedited permits, and the forgiveness of outstanding fines and penalties for homeowners who cooperate with the City and address safety concerns.
“City Hall’s job should be to help residents navigate tough times, not crush them with fines when they are already struggling,” Randhawa said, citing rising property taxes, utility bills, insurance costs, and the overall cost of living as challenges facing Surrey families.
According to Randhawa, many homeowners with non-compliant properties are not intentionally violating regulations. He noted that some residents purchased homes without knowing about unauthorized suites or additions, while others may have made modifications without fully understanding permit requirements. He also pointed to the growing number of secondary suites created by families seeking additional income in one of Canada’s most expensive housing markets.
Randhawa emphasized that public safety, fire safety, structural integrity, and compliance with building regulations must remain priorities. However, he argued that enforcement should focus first on cooperation and guidance rather than punishment.
Under the proposed plan, homeowners who work with the City to address safety hazards could qualify for forgiveness of outstanding fines and penalties. The initiative would also establish a dedicated homeowner assistance team to guide residents through permit applications, inspections, fire safety requirements, and legalization processes.
Randhawa said his administration would work to accelerate permit approvals and coordinate inspections with a focus on resolving issues more efficiently. The plan would prioritize fire, electrical, structural, and occupancy safety while distinguishing between serious unsafe violations and homeowners who made honest mistakes or inherited non-compliant work from previous owners.
He also proposed partnerships with Surrey-based contractors, electricians, plumbers, engineers, and fire safety professionals to help residents complete required upgrades more quickly and affordably.
Randhawa said excessive fines have added pressure on families already dealing with affordability challenges and argued that residents who are willing to bring their properties into compliance should receive support rather than additional financial burdens.
The mayoral candidate added that the initiative could also benefit the local economy by encouraging homeowners to hire Surrey-based tradespeople and contractors for required improvements, helping keep investment and jobs within the community.
“As a lawyer, I understand the importance of rules, safety, and accountability,” Randhawa said. “But I also understand fairness, proportionality, and common sense. City Hall exists to serve residents, not make their lives harder.”
Randhawa said his proposed administration would replace what he described as a fear-based enforcement approach with a system focused on practical solutions, compliance, and resident support. He also suggested that any election-year promises of compassion from the current administration would not erase years of frustration experienced by homeowners who felt ignored or unfairly penalized.
The proposal forms part of Randhawa’s broader campaign platform as he seeks support from Surrey voters ahead of the next municipal election.
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