There are many mistakes a first-time builder or developer can make that can quickly drive up the budget. You can read as much as possible and consult with professionals, but mistakes can still happen. That’s why construction budgets always include contingencies — because you never know what might come up.
The Vancouver Sun recently reported on several multiplex projects around the city that were halted at various stages of completion. [Click here to read the article.]
I’ve seen this problem firsthand. A builder and architect prepare the plans, the city reviews and approves them, and construction begins. Then, sometimes weeks or months later, BC Hydro or BC Tel shows up on their timeline and declares that the building is too close to their overhead lines. Depending on how far along the project is, and what remediation is required, this can be devastating.
What makes it worse is that it’s not usually the owner’s fault. All the professional participants know the rules and guidelines, but the problem still happens. And when it does, no one takes responsibility — leaving the owner to absorb the cost. If they can’t, they may even be forced to sell the project.
As multiplexes become more common and more homeowners are encouraged to pursue these projects, we’re likely to see this scenario repeated. To avoid it, make sure your builder is experienced and that a BC Hydro clearance review is completed before construction begins. If that can’t be arranged, ensure that your architect and builder review the relevant safety standards themselves and agree to take responsibility if BC Hydro later issues a stop-work order. Good luck
