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Advocacy Update #23 - October 21, 2025 |
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In this issue:
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CHBA BC Submission on Proposed Provincial Permitting Improvements |
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CHBA BC has submitted feedback to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship following the Province’s consultations throughout October on proposed permitting process improvements. The proposed changes aim to “streamline permitting, remove barriers and delays, eliminate duplication, and simplify processes while maintaining high environmental standards and [its] commitment under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act”.
Through our submission, CHBA BC expressed strong support for the Province’s efforts to simplify permitting through expanded exemptions and increased reliance on qualified professionals. CHBA BC also highlighted the need for clear guidance for local governments to support consistent interpretation and implementation of the proposed changes. Streamlining permitting has been a longstanding advocacy priority for CHBA BC, and these proposed improvements represent meaningful progress toward a more efficient and coordinated permitting process that supports housing delivery across the province.
CHBA BC will continue to engage with the Ministry as this work advances and will keep members informed of next steps. |
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Update: BC Introduces Prompt Payment Legislation |
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On October 7, the Province introduced prompt payment legislation through Bill 20, which is currently at first reading. If passed, prompt payment legislation would introduce statutory timelines for invoicing, payment, and dispute resolution (through adjudication) - in line with similar legislation enacted in Ontario and Alberta.
CHBA BC has been closely involved with this file and developed a Summary FAQ to help members understand the proposed changes.
We have also advocated to be consulted on the development of the regulations, which will determine when the legislation takes effect and how implementation may be phased. The Province has confirmed that CHBA BC will be engaged in this process. CHBA BC continues to advocate for a delayed and phased implementation with application to the public sector first, prior to considering expansion to the private sector. |
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CHBA Webinar on the Federal Budget 2025 |
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Last week, the office of federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson maintained that the Liberal government remains committed to cutting municipal development charges by 50% in partnership with provinces and territories. The Minister noted that more details are expected in the federal budget scheduled for release on November 4.
CHBA is hosting an upcoming webinar to help you understand the full impact of the 2025 Federal Budget on the residential construction sector. On November 6, join CEO Kevin Lee and MNP’s Kevin Wong, Partner and Regional Leader for Taxation Services, as they break down how the proposed budget affects the residential construction industry and what you need to know for your business.
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The federal government’s goal to double housing construction in Canada is being debated by BC economists, with some saying it’s doable under the right conditions and others saying it’s a pipe dream.
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This newsletter is exclusive for Canadian Home Builders' Association of BC (CHBA BC) members. If a colleague would like to subscribe, please have them update their contact information with their local association. For questions, feel free to contact Jenny Scott, Director of Policy and Government Relations, or Pauline Rupp, Director of Technical and Building Innovation. |
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