New Construction Laws
New and upcoming construction laws, building codes and regulations across Canada, and what each change means for owners, buyers, contractors, trades, workers, suppliers and designers. Every entry links to the official source.
32 changes
Showing changes that affect people and companies who own the property and commission the work, including homeowners renovating, with what each one means for you.
Changes for owners & developers
20 changes · page 2 of 2Encapsulated mass timber buildings allowed up to 18 storeys
In force since Jan 1, 2025
What it means for you: Developers can choose mass timber for taller mid-rise and high-rise projects.
Affects Owner Contractor Trade contractor Supplier Designer
2024 Ontario Building Code in effect (harmonized with NBC 2020)
In force since Jan 1, 2025
What it means for you: Permits applied for from April 1, 2025 must show compliance with the 2024 code.
Affects Owner Contractor Trade contractor Supplier Designer
Underused Housing Tax ended from the 2025 calendar year
In force since Jan 1, 2025
What it means for you: No UHT return or tax for 2025 onward, but any unfiled 2022–2024 returns and penalties are still owed.
Affects Owner Contractor
Mandatory construction-stage inspections and certificate of conformity (law adopted, regulation pending)
Announced · date not set
What it means for you: Owner-builders will need staged inspections and a certificate of conformity for covered buildings.
Affects Owner Homebuyer Contractor Trade contractor Designer
New Home Buyer Protection Act changes: caveats on warranty-exempt homes, appeal rights
Announced · date not set
What it means for you: Owner-builders get faster approvals but a title caveat if they sell without warranty.
Affects Owner Homebuyer Contractor
BC Construction Prompt Payment Act passed (not yet in force)
Announced · date not set
What it means for you: Once in force, pay proper invoices within 28 days or issue a non-payment notice within 14 days.
Affects Owner Contractor Trade contractor Supplier
New Consumer Protection Act, 2023 (not yet proclaimed)
Announced · date not set
What it means for you: When proclaimed, homeowners gain stronger cancellation rights for non-compliant or one-sided renovation contracts.
Affects Owner Contractor Supplier
2025 National Model Codes published (not yet law until adopted)
Announced · date not set
What it means for you: Future renovations may trigger energy efficiency upgrades once a province adopts the alteration provisions.
Affects Owner Homebuyer Contractor Trade contractor Supplier Designer
Plain-language summaries by ArtBuild, checked against the official source on the date shown on each page. This is general information, not legal advice, and you are responsible for how you use it. Laws change: always read the official text, and we recommend asking a lawyer or the regulator about your situation.