Articles from Building.ca

In July, Statistics Canada reported a slight decline of 0.1% in the value of building permits, totaling $11.9 billion. This decrease was driven by a 5.8% drop in non-residential permits, although residential permits increased by 3.8%. The residential sector saw growth in both single-family homes and multi-unit construction. Overall, the number of authorized dwellings rose slightly by 1.9% compared to the previous month.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has decided to significantly increase countervailing duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports, raising them from 6.74% to 14.63%. This hike, combined with already existing anti-dumping duties, results in a total duty of 35.19% for Canadian lumber. British Columbia's forest minister and business leaders have criticized the move, warning of its impact on construction costs in the U.S. and potential harm to communities reliant on forestry industries. The Canadian government is preparing to fight the decision through legal channels while also exploring solutions to support the industry.

The Canadian Wood Council welcomed a $1.2 billion federal investment announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney, aimed at supporting Canada's forest sector and increasing the use of Canadian wood in construction. This includes $700 million in loan guarantees and $500 million for innovation, workforce development, and market diversification. The investment aligns with the council's initiatives to promote sustainable wood-based construction solutions to meet housing and climate goals. The council is committed to continuing collaboration with government, industry, and construction professionals to enhance the use of sustainable wood systems.

The British Columbia government has given a preview of the ongoing Broadway subway tunnel construction in Vancouver, part of a $2.95 billion extension of the SkyTrain Millennium Line. The project, which includes six underground stations and is slated to open in 2027, is expected to triple the passenger capacity compared to the current rapid bus service. Although there are slight cost overruns common to underground construction, it remains largely under control. The project is expected to expand the overall SkyTrain capacity by over 27% by also extending the Expo Line to Langley.

The BC Construction Association (BCCA) has launched the Past Chair Legacy Fund to support development in the construction industry. This initiative aims to enhance the construction workforce by funding eligible trade and professional career paths. Up to four beneficiaries will be chosen annually, one from each designated region in British Columbia. Applications are open until June 15, 2025, and the fund aims to maintain industry competitiveness and innovation.

WorkSafeBC is urging construction companies to implement fall protection measures to prevent worker injuries on construction sites, especially as activity increases with the arrival of spring. In light of more than 1,000 injuries reported last year from falls, the organization emphasizes that many accidents are preventable with adequate safety measures. Between 2020 and 2024, falls resulted in over 5,400 claims, including 1,900 serious injuries and 35 fatalities. WorkSafeBC notes that failing to use fall protection is often due to time constraints or misconceptions about task risk levels.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) reports a bleak outlook for new home construction in Ontario and British Columbia as builder confidence hits record lows. Both single-family and multi-family housing market indices have scored poorly, reflecting declines in housing starts and significant affordability challenges. Builders cite rising construction costs, high development charges, and economic uncertainty as major concerns. Kevin Lee of CHBA urges government action to focus on housing affordability and infrastructure financing to alleviate the pressures faced by builders and potential homeowners.