Builder Licensing / Working in the Trades

All residential builders in British Columbia, building under Part 9 of the BC Building Code, need to meet BC Housing’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements to maintain your building license.

BC Housing requires licensed residential builders to complete a minimum of 20 CPD points each licence year. Here are the requirements:

  • Annual Requirement: Licensed general contractors must complete 20 CPD points per year to keep their licence in good standing.
  • Point Structure:
    • Formal learning: 2 CPD points per hour (e.g., courses, workshops).
    • Informal learning: 1 CPD point per hour (e.g., research, self-study).
  • Carry-Forward Policy: You can carry forward up to 20 CPD points into the next licence term, provided the CPD nominee remains the same.
  • Reporting: CPD hours must be logged through the Licensed Residential Builders Portal.
  • Approved Providers: BC Housing maintains an Education Registry of pre-approved CPD courses and providers.

Core competencies: Relevant Enactments (building code), Construction Management and Supervision, Construction Technology, and Customer Service and Home Warranty Insurance, Financial Planning and Budget Management, Legal Issues, Business Planning, Management and Administration, and Business Ethics.

For more information on the CPD points program, visit BC Housing.

 

HOW TO BECOME A LICENCED BUILDER?

CHBA BC, our provincial association, offers certification courses to become a licensed builder or professional renovator. Gain recognition in your career and or company with Certified Housing Professional, Certified Renovation Professional, and Master Residential Builder programs. 

HAVAN members receive 25% off CHBA BC Certification courses.

 

INTERESTED IN  A CAREER IN THE RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY?

The following resources can help!

HAVAN’s online eLearning Courses.

BCIT Construction: BCIT School of Construction and  the Environment

BCIT Apprenticeship Training 

Kwantlen Polytechnic University: Faculty of Trades and Technology

Langara College: Construction and Development
Certificate

Skilled Trades Employment Program (STEP)

Vancouver Regional Construction Association – Construction Job Centre

Employers and employees – here is a partial summary of various incentives and funding for Red Seal apprenticeship initiatives.