How do Building Inspections protect the public health and safety?

Buildings are complex, particularly when they include plumbing, electrical wiring, and connections to drinking water and septic systems. The BC Building Code establishes minimum requirements that are designed to help keep occupants safe and healthy. When followed, the requirements help to ensure that buildings:

  • Are structurally sound, with proper building frames and foundations
  • Provide adequate fire protection
  • Address issues concerning radon gas
  • Provide adequate exits in the event of emergencies
  • Are equipped with proper plumbing for safe drinking water and liquid waste disposal
  • Minimize hazards to prevent accidents

All Buildings are required to be constructed to the BC Building Code. Only buildings in area with building inspection, however, are subject to the consistent and high level of oversight required, at key points of the construction process, to ensure that the Code is met and safety standards upheld.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a building permit for a cannabis production facility?
2. Do I need a building permit for a farm building?
3. How do Building Inspections protect the public health and safety?
4. How do I arrange a Building Inspection?
5. How does an owner apply for a building permit?
6. How will inspections be carried out in remote locations throughout in EA B, EA C and EA E?
7. In what new Electoral Areas (EAs) are Building Permits (BPs) required?
8. Is a building permit required for a structure that is under construction when the service takes effect?
9. What are the building permit fees?
10. What can I do if I am concerned about my neighbor who may be constructing without a building permit?
11. What days will inspections be available in our area?
12. What do the new six inspections cover?
13. What happens in EA F if my current BP that was issued under the previous Building Regulation Bylaw No. 630 expires and is renewed after the new Building Bylaw No. 660 is effective March 5, 2018?
14. What is a Site Disclosure Statement?
15. What is Building Inspection?
16. What is the building permit process?
17. What is the time period between issuance and expiry of a building permit?
18. What other permits (in addition to a building permit) may be required?
19. When did the Building Inspection service start in Electoral Area C? When did it start in Electoral Areas B and E? When did it start in Electoral Area F?
20. When is a building permit NOT required?
21. When is a building permit required?
22. Where can I find information on the BC Building Code?
23. Why are six inspections required?