New License Condition is Coming for General Contractors

The rules are changing for general contractors in B.C. There will be a new condition for all licenses renewed from September 2022 onwards. By the end of the year, the province will require all new buildings to be 20% more efficient than the current building code. Builders will have to show that they have had training and can build to Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code.

To help builders meet the new requirements, BC Housing is developing a training program and builders will have two years to complete it. They are currently working with other professional associations and educators who provide Step Code training to compile a list of courses. They’re aiming to have the completed list finished by mid-August and will then email it to licensed residential builders.

As with everything, there are exceptions. If a builder can show they are already building to Step 3 or have already completed equivalent training, they’ll be able to apply for an exemption.