Question 1

What is the first step to get started with my project?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to get a Survey and determine your wish list. Once you have a Survey, your wish list, our team can assess the feasibility of your project. Contact us for a complimentary feasibility study.

Question 2

What documents are needed for a new home permit?

Accepted Answer

You need a property survey, site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, details, energy compliance documents, and Structural Engineering drawings. We prepare all required drawings and can advise on any additional requirements.

Question 3

Besides drawings, which other professionals will I need for my Custom Home project?

Accepted Answer

In the Lower Mainland of BC, including Vancouver, a Custom Home project requires specific professionals to meet local regulations:• A BC Land Surveyor for property surveys and site plans.• A Structural Engineer registered with Engineers and Geoscientists BC to design and certify Structural elements.• A Certified Energy Advisor to ensure compliance with BC Energy Step Code requirements.• A Geotechnical Engineer for soil assessment and foundation recommendations, especially in areas with challenging terrain or near water bodies.• An Arborist if there are trees on or near your property.• A Building Envelope Specialist, particularly required in Vancouver's rainy climate.• Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineers or Certified Trades Persons depending on project complexity and municipal requirements.• A Civil Engineer for site servicing, grading, and stormwater management in some municipalities.• A Sprinkler Engineer for fire suppression systems, which is increasingly being required in many municipalities. Specifically, sprinkler engineering is required when: adding more than 5 sprinkler heads, relocating more than 20 sprinklers, or when proposing any additions to an existing sprinklered building.• A professional to prepare CSA F280 Reports (Heat Loss and Heat Gain Calculation), which are required for heating and cooling system design.• A Qualified Professional (QP) if your project is within a Development Permit (DP) area, as outlined in the next question.Canadian Blueprint can not only advise which professionals are required for your specific project and municipality, but we can also recommend experienced professionals we've worked with successfully in the past, helping to streamline your project and ensure quality work.

Question 4

Do I need a Development Permit for my project?

Accepted Answer

In BC, many municipalities have designated Development Permit (DP) Areas where additional approvals are required before building permits can be issued. There are five main types of Development Permit Areas:• Environmental Protection DPs: Required for properties near environmentally sensitive areas like streams, wetlands, or critical habitats.• Wildfire Hazard DPs: Required in areas with significant wildfire risk, typically in or near forested areas.• Foreshore DPs: Required for waterfront properties and those affecting riparian areas.• Form & Character DPs: Required for multi-family and commercial developments to ensure architectural compatibility with neighborhood character.• Duplex DPs: Specifically for duplex developments in certain municipalities.If your property falls within a DP area, you'll need to engage a Qualified Professional (QP) appropriate to the specific DP type—such as a Registered Professional Biologist for Environmental DPs, or a Registered Professional Forester for Wildfire Hazard DPs. The DP application process typically occurs before the building permit application and may add 2-4 months to your project timeline. Canadian Blueprint can help determine if your property is in a DP area and coordinate with the appropriate Qualified Professionals to prepare the necessary documentation.

Question 5

Do I need an Architect for my project?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, you don't require an Architect unless your project involves more than five dwelling units as per AIBC.

Residential Design Services

Custom Home Design

Laneway & Multiplex Design

Design-Build Support

Your Home, Designed With Purpose

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions?

Still have questions?

Ready to Start Your Project?