Question

why had the canterville family' not lived in canterville chase for sometime

Answer 1

because they do not have more time

Answer 2

The Canterville family did not stay in the Centerville chase for some time because Canterville thought that the house was haunted.  

In fact, the house was sold by the Lord to Mr Otis in this fear.

He also thought it was his duty to tell Mr Otis about the ghosts.

However, Mr Otis refused to accept the perception of Canterville and mocked on hearing about the ghosts.