CHANGES TO BC'S HOME INSPECTOR LICENSING REGULATION 卑詩省收緊規管驗屋師

March 15, 2016

Today, the provincial government announced updates to BC’s Home Inspector Licensing Regulation, to take effect September 1, 2016. Please read the government’s press release here. You can also read the Order in Council for more details.  As the regulator and licensing body for the home inspection industry, we know there will be questions about the implications of the changes announced today. We will have more comprehensive information on our website leading up to September 1st so please continue to visit www.homeinspectionrightsbc.ca. If you have a specific question, please email operations@consumerprotectionbc.ca. Thank you, Consumer Protection BC New requirements for home inspectors will give consumers increased confidence when they purchase a home. The rules take effect on Sept. 1, 2016, and will enhance home inspector licensing qualifications, strengthen home inspection reports, contracts and insurance requirements, and improve enforcement, by requiring the following: Home inspection contracts must describe in advance what will be covered in an inspection. Contractual terms that limit home inspectors’ liability will be prohibited. New business record-keeping requirements will be put in place for home inspectors. Home inspectors will be required to have valid professional and general liability insurance. In 2013, the provincial government invited public input on an improved regulatory model for home inspectors. The resulting changes are based on public input, as well as research and consultation with home inspector associations and home inspectors, Consumer Protection BC and other stakeholders. The Province will also undertake a comprehensive review of the qualifications required to perform home inspections and develop new, more rigorous training and examination requirements for those wishing to become home inspectors. This review will help develop a single occupational standard for all B.C. home inspectors. Results are expected to be in place in 2017. Quick Facts: In 2009, British Columbia became the first jurisdiction in Canada to require licensing of home inspectors. British Columbia and Alberta are the only two provinces that regulate home inspectors in Canada. Ontario is considering doing so. There are approximately 483 licensed home inspectors in B.C. Learn More: Looking for information about home inspections? http://www.homeinspectionrightsbc.ca Related news: 2016/03/16 Mingpao - 省府收緊規管驗屋師 新例2016秋生效