Building in Vancouver

Vancouver operates under a different building code than surrounding municipalities with higher step code requirements for energy efficiency. Permit timelines are the longest in the Lower Mainland—expect 6-9 months for approvals. The city has two distinct building environments: West Side with older heritage homes and higher-end rebuilds and East Van which has become an up-and-coming area where people with money are buying and renovating.

Many homes are 100+ years old which means dealing with outdated plumbing wiring and potential heritage designations.

Access is a real challenge in Vancouver. Parking for trades materials delivery and site logistics require planning especially in denser neighbourhoods. Heritage homes come with city requirements that dictate what can and can't be changed.

Older homes often have knob-and-tube wiring galvanized pipes that have eroded and other systems that need full replacement—not just updating. The city reviews every detail thoroughly which is why permits take so long.

Vancouver's higher step code adds to build costs but delivers a more energy-efficient home. Land values mean renovation often makes more sense than buying elsewhere. Heritage requirements can add complexity and cost.

Tight lot access and parking limitations can affect trade scheduling and material delivery logistics. Despite the challenges Vancouver remains where our most discerning clients build.

West Side clients are typically affluent homeowners doing high-end renovations or tearing down older homes to build new. East Van attracts a mix—young professionals families and investors buying character homes and modernizing them.

Both areas see heritage renovations second story additions and full custom builds. Clients here expect quality and are willing to invest in doing things right.