2021 Wildfire Impact on Housing Insurance

Businesses of the residential construction sector are among the many that were directly affected by this year’s wildfires. Challenges were presenting in securing course of construction insurance from providers, many of whom took a more stringent, hardline approach on issuing new or increased policies for properties within a prescribed proximity of a known and active fire – sometimes as large as a 100km radius.

CHBA BC has kept the provincial government apprised of the challenging situation members faced during this wildfire season and what it means for housing supply and economic activity. Discussions have initiated on how to better prepare for future seasons.

CHBA BC Ongoing Discussions with David Eby, Minister Responsible for Housing

On September 20^th, CHBA BC representatives met once again with David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. Together with President Alex Tavuchis and Government Relations Chair Matt McCurrach, CHBA BC CEO and Director of Policy and Government Relations presented the Minister with information regarding the impacts of wildfire on course of construction insurance, industry perspective on the Canada-B.C. Government Expert Panel on Housing Supply Report, and recommendations on CleanBC’s 2030 GHG sectoral targets. We continue to be encouraged by the Minister’s high level of interest and leadership on the housing file.

Consultations & Submissions

Look Ahead for Budget 2022

CHBA BC has made its annual submission to the provincial budgeting process for 2022.

Following the stability presented in Budget 2021, CHBA BC is seeking this approach to continue with Budget 2022, but with further investments that will help housing and climate change goals. Measures that bring forward more housing supply, should remain a priority rather than measures that impact demand. We remain committed to advancing the recommendations of the Development Approval Process Review (DAPR) report.

Furthermore, CHBA BC requested the province continue to increase funding and expand CleanBC Better Homes New Construction Program, which has been temporarily closed as of September 24^th due to the overabundance of registrations. This is a critical sign that the industry and consumers are responding to this program, beyond original estimates.

CHBA BC’s Position on Province’s Skilled Trades Certification (STC) System

In response to the announcement of the return of a compulsory trade system in B.C., CHBA BC has presented the Parliamentary Secretary of Skills Training, Andrew Mercier, with a submission that outlines principles on how the STC system, and its transition, should be designed to support workers and employers.

All feedback received from the consultation process will inform the government’s final report, expected for release in the Fall of 2021.

Permanent B.C. Paid Sick Leave Legislation

We have been actively engaged in provincial consultations on a permanent paid sick leave program. The Ministry of Labour has released for further public comment options on the minimum numbers of days for paid sick leave; three, five or 10 days.

CHBA BC wants to support the government’s intent to have a program that is fair, balanced and reasonable for everyone. There is a concern that the program will come at an employers expense, and the government needs to consider measures like provincial relief from the Employer’s Health tax to mitigate impacts.

CHBA BC Opposes WorkSafe BC’s Proposed Changes

CHBA BC does not support WorkSafe BC’s proposed amendments on minimum first aid levels under Low, Moderate and High hazard workplace situations. If implemented, these changes would result in added confusion to workers and employers, increased, unnecessary costs, and reduced worksite productivity.