BCCA to host webinar on its Guide to BC Trade Definitions

VANCOUVER — On March 27 the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) is hosting a webinar introducing the Guide to BC Trade Definitions.

It will cover the purpose and intent behind the guide and walk through key aspects of the document, highlighting how it can be used by trade and general contractors, the association states.

The Guide to BC Trade Definitions is a resource developed by the BCCA and its BC Trade Definitions Committee. It was created specifically for trade and general contractors and outlines detailed trade scopes and inclusions/exclusions to support the industry in understanding and co-ordinating construction work across the province.

Its key intent is to provide clarity into the bidding process, assist in contract negotiations and eliminate potential trade conflicts on the jobsite by giving clarity to scope. It can also be used as an educational document.

For clarity, this document does not imply a requirement to include work not specified: this is a guide, the BCCA states.

“General contractors and trade contractors may choose to incorporate these trade definitions into bid and contract documents,” a guide description reads. “For example, with language such as ‘this bid is in accordance with the Guide to BC Trade Definitions.’ Additional language could be added to clarify deviations from this guide. This is their business decision to do this and should be clearly stipulated.”

A living document, the guide will be reviewed regularly, and all companies, individuals and trade associations may request changes to any or all trade definitions by providing their request in writing to BCCA. The request must include the change, reason for the change and the effect on the other scopes. The BC Trade Definitions Committee will review and rule on all requests.

“The new BC Trade Definitions are a game-changer for our industry, setting the standard for clarity, fairness, and collaboration in project delivery,” says BCCA president Chris Atchison.

“By reducing confusion and disputes, they can help trade and general contractors focus on providing quality work. This is about more than best practices—it’s about building a stronger construction industry in BC for everyone.”