The B.C. government is inviting input on an improved regulatory model for home inspectors.

Two online surveys will run from Nov. 25 to Dec. 20, 2013: one to seek consumer opinions, the other to solicit feedback from industry and home-inspection professionals.

British Columbia was the first province to license home inspectors and is still one of only two provinces doing so today. To be licensed, B.C. home inspectors must meet specific education requirements, receive appropriate practical training, pass at least one peer-test inspection review, and meet continuing education requirements by the inspector's association.

In June 2013, Minister Responsible for Housing Rich Coleman was given responsibility to strengthen home inspection accreditation to better protect consumers buying a home by improving the qualification and training requirements for licensed home inspectors.

Feedback received through these surveys will help inform changes to the home inspection regulatory model.

Take the consumer survey now: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/HIP/

Survey for home inspection professionals: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/HIS/

Quick Facts:

• In 2009, British Columbia became the first jurisdiction in Canada to require licensing of home inspectors.
• B.C. and Alberta are the only two provinces that regulate home inspectors in Canada. Ontario is considering doing so.
•  There are approximately 460 licensed home inspectors in B.C.

Learn More:

Looking for a licensed home inspector? http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/consumers-home-inspections

Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Media Relations
Ministry of Natural Gas Development and Responsible for Housing
250 952-0617