Substantial Reconstruction Online Query
This online query tool will help you quickly assess whether a project may require a New Home Registration Form.
Under the
Homeowner Protection Act a
new home
includes a home that is or is being
substantially reconstructed.
Renovations do not normally require a New Home Registration Form. A project that is “substantially reconstructed”,
however, is no longer a renovation. It’s considered to be a new home.
This means the project requires a New Home Registration Form as proof that a licensed builder has arranged for
home warranty insurance for the new home or some formal exemption
(such as an Owner
Builder Authorization). The Homeowner Protection Act and its regulations state that builders of
new homes must have the appropriate New Home Registration Form to obtain a building permit, or to
commence construction in non-permit areas.
For more information about substantially reconstruction, please download Regulatory Bulletin No. 6 – Substantially Reconstructed Homes and the Homeowner Protection Act.
Please have the following information ready to complete your online query:
- The complete civic address (or PID number) of project
- Your name, contact phone number and a valid email address
- Name of the local building department responsible for building permits for the project
- Name and email address of the building permit staff, if available
- Details of the proposed work on the project
IMPORTANT: The Substantial Reconstruction Online Query assessment is a tool provided for convenience only.
It only provides an estimation based solely on the information entered and does not constitute legal advice.
For further information and details, consult the Homeowner Protection Act and its regulations and your legal counsel.
BC Housing reserves its right and obligations under the Homeowner Protection Act
to enforce the requirements of the Homeowner Protection Act
and its regulations, and to make a determination on whether or not a project is a substantial reconstruction and requires a New Home Registration Form.
The personal information you enter is collected under section 26(c)
of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If you have concerns regarding the
assessment or questions about the collection, use, and disclosure of this information, please
contact BC Housing’s Compliance Department: compliance@bchousing.org.