Owners of Emily Carr’s Historic House Seek Rental Exemption

Owners of the historic House of Allsorts in Victoria, British Columbia, are requesting an exemption from short-term rental regulations. This move aims to generate funds for the building’s maintenance and preservation. The property, which is over 112 years old, is the only privately-owned historic site in the province and has significant ties to renowned artist Emily Carr.

The House of Allsorts was named by Carr during her adulthood, and remnants of her artistic legacy remain, particularly in the attic. This space features both original paintings on the ceiling and copies displayed on the walls. The attic served as a creative refuge for Carr, where she painted and wrote some of her most notable works.

Current owner Peter Willis has been managing the property since his grandmother acquired it in 1973. Following the purchase, the house received a historic designation, which has helped preserve its significance. While the Emily Carr House, located nearby, is maintained by the province, all upkeep of the House of Allsorts is Willis’s responsibility.

Willis believes that securing a short-term rental exemption could be key to restoring the house. He estimates that approximately $800,000 is needed for the total restoration. “I think I can do it if I get a short-term rental exemption,” he stated. Presently, the building accommodates long-term tenants on the lower floor, while the upper level offers two suites available for a minimum of 90-day rentals.

Currently, Willis cannot rent the property on a short-term basis, as he does not reside in the house. He argues that allowing short-term rentals would relieve some financial pressure and enable necessary renovations. “I think it’s the province’s moral and ethical obligation,” he added regarding the exemption request.

The matter is currently under review by the Attorney General’s legal services branch, which has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the exemption application. If granted, the exemption could not only aid in the preservation of this historic site but also attract visitors interested in Carr’s legacy and the artistic history of the region.