Building & Industry News
Families Need Missing Middle Housing
CMHC announced our region’s housing starts for January to November 2019 and there is a 7.3% decline vs 2018 from 3,498 to 3,242. Demand is still strong, especially among a large millennial demographic, however challenges include land costs, zoning restrictions, slow...
Development Education Program Needed
One of the challenges of being a developer and builder is explaining our business model and the opportunity for community revitalization to elected officials and the public. For example, if the community expects amenities, significant green space, preservation of...
National Building Code Review for Energy Efficiency in New Homes Coming in January
The National Building Code is holding a public review in January 2020 for energy efficiency in new home construction. Visit...
Colwood Housing Up 128% While Saanich Declines 57%
CMHC housing starts for Greater Victoria from Jan – Nov 2019 show a total of 3,242 new units compared with 3,498 the same time last year for a decline of -7%. Biggest declines are Central Saanich -75% Oak Bay -73% Saanich -57% and North Saanich -51%. Biggest increase...
Try VRBA Expression of Interest
Thinking of building a new home or renovating? Try our online Expression of Interest making it easy to get quotes from VRBA’s professional contractors. Visit vrba.ca/hire-a-vrba-member and fill out the form which is forwarded to members. There is no cost or...
‘Tis the Season for Giving
In good and tough economic times, there are always those in need. During the holiday season VRBA supports fundraisers to make a difference in our community. One such event is the Festival of Trees for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation helping children benefit from...
Saanich Council Considers Circumventing BC Best Practice for DCC’s
Saanich council will again consider a report proposing 180% increase to DCC's that gives one side of the story. The report on Development Cost charges says: "The proposed Development Cost Charge program (2019) is based on the 'benefiter pays principle', whereby those...
Community Builders Building Our Community
As 2019/20 President, it is a pleasure to be part of an outstanding VRBA team building our community. I want to thank Jenny Martin, Past President for her leadership and hard work during the year. I look forward to continuing to work with Jenny and this year’s Board...
No Funds for Housing Strategy in Saanich Plan
Saanich Council is engaging in all kinds of actions including triple digit increases to housing fees like DCC's, putting market housing applications on the backburner behind govt projects, and may require developers (new homebuyers) pay for "inclusive" affordable...
VRBA Announces New Board of Directors and Award Winners
The Victoria Residential Builders Association announced the 2019/20 Board of Directors at their AGM on November 13, 2020 at the Gorge Vale Golf Club. The event speaker was Jim Baker, Senior Analyst, BC Building and Safety Standards on upcoming changes to the National...