Start With These Websites To Learn More About Compliance Issues
When it comes to starting a business, one of the first decisions you need to make is the the legal structure of your business - sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, or limited company. You'll also need to register your business and you'll need to be aware of many municipal, provincial or federal regulations. The websites in this section will help you.
General Websites
Canada Business Network - Permits and Licenses Search
Search for the permits and licenses applicable to your industry and location to meet all federal, provincial and municipal regulations.
Small Business BC (SBBC)
SBBC is a great place to start for information on BC specific regulations and guidelines, for whatever stage you are in your business development. This is a great post on the topic.
BizPaL
This is the one-stop website to assist Canadian businesses that are just starting up, or expanding into new areas. BizPaL asks you a short series of questions about the nature and scope of your current or proposed business. Based on your answers, BizPaL provides you with a customized list of government permits and licences that you may require to operate your business. All of the information that you provide is kept anonymous, and you may save or print your results for future reference.
The Province of British Columbia
Provides information on programs and resources available to small business owners in British Columbia. Includes information on taxes and industry regulations. Start with the Permits, Licences & Registrations section.
Industry Specific Websites
Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI) - BC Regulations & Compliance
A set of guidelines for home inpectors to follow when performing inspections. Includes Standards of Practice for Single Family Dwellings, Townhouses, and Apartment Style Condominiums.
Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of British Columbia – Property Inspectors (ASTTBC-PI)
This set of guidelines outlines the purpose, scope and limitations of a home inspection.
Alliance of Canadian Home Inspectors (ACHI) - Standards of Practice
The ACHI list of home inspection standards.
Canadian Construction Association (CCA) Click on the Industry Practices menu item for helpful information on regulatory practices and guidelines.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
The CSA is a not-for-profit membership-based association that serves business, industry, government, and consumers in Canada and the global marketplace. The CSA develops standards that enhance public safety and health.
Start here: Construction Standards
WorkSafeBC
WorkSafeBC is dedicated to promoting workplace health and safety for workers and employers in British Columbia.
Start here: Safety at Work - Construction
BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA)
The BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) is a non-profit safety association that develops health and safety programs, tools and resources for both construction employers and workers in British Columbia.