Introduction: Licensing Isn’t the Same as Trust
There’s a dangerous misconception out there: hiring a licensed contractor guarantees peace of mind. But as the recent demolition case in West Vancouver proves, that simply isn’t true. While licensing is important, it’s not enough. You need a trusted general contractor who understands zoning, permitting, and compliance—not just someone with a license.
A homeowner built a large accessory structure without a single permit or inspection, and now faces a government-mandated demolition and a notice on title—regardless of the builder’s credentials. Here’s the real takeaway: you need more than a compliant contractor—you need a trusted general contractor who actively guides the process, not just builds it.
That’s where Island Heights Construction comes in. We serve Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands—including Mill Bay, Duncan, Tofino, Port Alice, Nanaimo, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Parksville, Nanoose, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, Port Alberni, and Courtenay—with one mission: build your project safely, legally, and without surprises.
Why a Trusted General Contractor Offers More Than Licensing
Some Builders Don’t Care About Bylaws. We Do.
While a contractor may be licensed, if they’re willing to skip permits, they’re gambling with your home. A trusted general contractor proactively:
- Confirms zoning and building requirements upfront.
- Pulls permits before construction begins.
- Books inspections and passes them.
Keeps detailed documentation for your protection.
Therefore, you’re not just hiring a builder—you’re hiring a guardian for your investment.
Why Hiring a Trusted General Contractor Protects You Legally
Homeowner Liability Means Your Choice Matters
Under B.C. law, including in Nanaimo, RDN, and the rest of Vancouver Island, the homeowner is responsible for permits. That means:
- You risk stop-work orders, fines, or forced demolition—even if you hired someone else.
- Consequently, a flawed contractor can cost you time, money, and your property’s resale value.
Your choice of contractor isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a legal shield.
Step-by-Step: Hiring a Trusted General Contractor on Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands
Define Goals and Budget Clearly
Clarify your project’s scope, timeline, and budget for accurate proposals.
Verify Licensing with BC Housing
Ensure your contractor appears in the BC Housing Licensed Residential Builder Registry and is authorized for your project type.
Confirm 2‑5‑10 Home Warranty Eligibility for Licensed Builders in Nanaimo
Mandatory for new homes—provides 2 years on systems, 5 on envelope, 10 on structure. Ask for written proof.
Obtain a WorkSafeBC Clearance Letter
Verifies the contractor is in good standing and registered—protects you from liability.
Check Insurance & Municipal Business Licence
Require general liability and auto insurance, plus proof of a local business licence.
Demand a Written Permitting Plan for Home Renovation Permits
Specifically, ask for one that outlines needed permits, responsibilities, timelines, and inspection sequences—region-specific, as Nanaimo acknowledges accessory buildings over 10 m² must be permitted.
Ask for a Detailed, Line‑Item Estimate
Should include labour, materials, permits, contingencies, and taxes—not vague lump sums.
Review a Thorough Contract with Your Trusted General Contractor
Must cover scope, change orders, payment structure, compliance with BC Building Code, inspection steps, schedule, and record-keeping.
Assess Scheduling Realistically on Vancouver Island
Expect permit lead times, material delays, and weather buffers—especially in coastal areas like Tofino and Port Alice.
Red Flags When Choosing a Trusted General Contractor
Vague quotes, unwillingness to pull permits, tension around liability, or no WorkSafeBC clearance? Walk away.
Permit Myths That Catch Homeowners and Trusted General Contractors Off Guard
“Permits are just bureaucracy.”
They create a clear legal path, saving time and preventing dangerous mistakes.
“I’m outside city limits—no permits needed.”
Regional districts enforce regulations too. Ignoring them can lead to enforcement actions.
“It’s only a small shed.”
In Nanaimo, anything over 10 m² triggers a permit—even small sheds must follow zoning.
“Being licensed covers missing permits.”
Actually, it doesn’t. Licensing doesn’t absolve you of homeowner responsibility.
“Home warranty is enough to skip compliance.”
The 2‑5‑10 warranty applies only to compliant, licensed construction.
“I’ll get permits later.”
Too risky. Many municipalities require deconstruction to inspect.
“Owner‑builder avoids licensing.”
As a result, this offloads risk to you—you’re liable for defects for up to 10 years.
FAQs: Trusted General Contractors, Permits, and Compliance
How do I verify a contractor’s license in B.C.?
Search BC Housing’s registry and ask for their license number and warranty eligibility proof.
Do I need permits for renovations?
Yes—especially for structural changes, plumbing, demolitions, or anything over 10 m².
What is the 2‑5‑10 warranty?
Mandatory new home coverage: 2 years on systems, 5 years on envelope, 10 years structural.
What is a WorkSafeBC clearance letter?
Proof your contractor is registered and in good standing—reduces homeowner liability.
Who should pull the permits?
Trusted general contractors typically do. Your contract should define this.
What if the previous owner did unpermitted work?
As a result, you may face deconstruction or be required to get engineering certification.
Quick Contractor-Vetting Table
| Verification | What to Request | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| BC Housing License | Screenshot or license number | Confirms legal authority and oversight. |
| 2‑5‑10 Warranty | Written eligibility proof | Ensures your home has long-term protection. |
| WorkSafeBC Clearance | Letter with issue date | Reduces liability and ensures coverage. |
| Insurance & Business Licence | Certificates | Ensures compliance and protects all parties. |
| Permit Plan | Written permit schedule | Prevents legal issues and project delays. |
Final Word: Why a Trusted General Contractor Is the Foundation You Can’t Build Without
That West Vancouver story wasn’t about bricks and beams—it was about a collapse of trust and process. Whether you’re planning your project in Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Courtenay, or Port Alberni, the difference between a smooth build and a disaster often comes down to your contractor’s integrity and process—not just their license number.
For peace of mind and legal protection, choose a trusted general contractor who guides you from the first permit to the final inspection.
Choose Island Heights Construction—where trust is built in.
Service Areas: Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands
Island Heights Construction proudly serves homeowners and developers across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, including:
- Nanaimo
- Mill Bay
- Duncan
- Tofino
- Port Alice
- Cowichan Bay
- Cobble Hill
- Parksville
- Nanoose
- Ladysmith
- Lake Cowichan
- Port Alberni
- Courtenay
Wherever you’re building, renovating, or planning—we bring local knowledge, compliance expertise, and craftsmanship to every project.