A homeowner in Chilliwack, British Columbia, has been informed that his residence is uninhabitable and has no value due to the risk of landslides.
During the intense rainfall in 2021, a landslide came close to Chris Rampersad’s house, stopping just five meters away without reaching it.
Rampersad shared with Global News that despite this, his property has been valued at $2, and he has been advised to vacate the premises.
He mentioned that he has received no financial aid from the British Columbia government and is still making mortgage payments for the house.
“I’m looking at potentially losing nearly $1.8 to $1 million, for which I’m still paying, and there’s no asset there,” Rampersad expressed.
“I doubt I can sell the house given the valuation of two dollars and the severe risk associated with residing in it.”
In the previous summer, Rampersad mentioned that the provincial government rejected his eligibility for compensation or aid.
Both the Regional District and Rampersad were hopeful that the government was working on a resolution but have not received any updates.
“I believe the only viable option for them is to repurchase these properties, demolish the structures, and secure the land for road and public safety,” Rampersad suggested.
There are six properties in the vicinity that have been valued at $2.
“It’s truly saddening to see these individuals going through such hardships,” expressed Patti MacAhonic from the Fraser Valley Regional District.
She emphasized that it is the responsibility of the British Columbia government to aid property owners whose residences are deemed hazardous.
“They had assured us to be patient, as a solution was in the works,” she mentioned. “The Regional District… is not equipped to handle this matter.”
On the other hand, Kelly Greene, the Minister of Emergency Management in British Columbia, stated that homeowners must liaise with the federal government through the Regional District.
“The provincial schemes do not cover the magnitude of damages they have suffered on their properties,” she clarified.
MacAhonic disclosed that she has requested another meeting with ministry personnel, and Rampersad now resides part-time in Abbotsford.
Rampersad expressed concerns that if the government does not intervene, he may never be able to sell the property.
