Does my policy cover asbestos?

Most general liability policies exclude asbestos. If you disturb asbestos-containing materials, the claim may not be covered. Test before demolition on older homes, and use a licensed abatement contractor where required.

Do I need a BC Housing licence for renovations?

Usually not. A BC Housing licence is required for new home construction and for certain building envelope renovations. Most kitchen, bath, and interior renovations don't need one.

What do stratas usually ask renovators for?

Most want a certificate of insurance before work starts, often with the strata corporation named as an additional insured, and some set a minimum liability limit. Get the requirements in writing first.

British Columbia trade insurance

Insurance for Home Renovation Contractors in British Columbia

Liability, tools, and installation coverage for BC renovation contractors. Licensed BC brokers compete for your account.

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Home Renovation Contractors in British Columbia illustration

Commercial Liability & Risk Guide for Home Renovation Contractors in British Columbia

Renovating older homes in British Columbia means dealing with asbestos, aging plumbing, and building envelope issues that don't show up until the walls are open. Since 2024, asbestos abatement in BC has to be done by licensed contractors with certified workers, and many liability policies exclude asbestos entirely. Strata renovations add strata approval and insurance certificate requirements. QuoteMatch sends your application to licensed BC brokers who write renovation contractors, so you can compare how each handles these exposures.

Risks specific to British Columbia

Working in British Columbia brings its own climate, market, and regulatory risks:

Asbestos in pre-1990 homes, which most liability policies exclude.
Hidden water damage and rot behind walls in older coastal homes.
Strata renovation rules, including certificates naming the strata.
Damage to neighbouring units during condo renovations.

Rules and requirements to know

Insurers and clients in British Columbia will expect you to meet these:

WorkSafeBC asbestos rules, including licensing for abatement contractors since 2024.
BC Housing licensing only if you build new homes or do certain building envelope renovations.
Municipal building permits and strata bylaws for condo and townhouse work.

Example claim

How a claim could happen

“A North Vancouver renovator opens a bathroom wall in a strata townhouse and nicks a supply line. It leaks into the neighbouring unit before it's found.”

How coverage respondsThe renovator's liability coverage handles the neighbour's repairs and the strata's claim for the shared wall.

Official resources

Home Renovation Contractors in other provinces

Common questions: Home Renovation Contractors in British Columbia

Does my policy cover asbestos?: Most general liability policies exclude asbestos. If you disturb asbestos-containing materials, the claim may not be covered. Test before demolition on older homes, and use a licensed abatement contractor where required.
Do I need a BC Housing licence for renovations?: Usually not. A BC Housing licence is required for new home construction and for certain building envelope renovations. Most kitchen, bath, and interior renovations don't need one.
What do stratas usually ask renovators for?: Most want a certificate of insurance before work starts, often with the strata corporation named as an additional insured, and some set a minimum liability limit. Get the requirements in writing first.