Renovation Glossary: 60 Key Terms Every BC Homeowner Should Know

Essential Renovation Terms for BC Homeowners

Renovation contracts, permit applications, and contractor conversations are full of jargon. This glossary defines 60 key terms you’ll encounter during a BC renovation.

A–C

• Alteration Agreement: Formal strata approval document for renovation work affecting structure, plumbing, or common property
• ASHP (Air Source Heat Pump): Heating/cooling system that moves heat between indoor and outdoor air
• Bearing wall: See “load-bearing wall”
• BCBC: BC Building Code — the regulatory standard for all construction in BC
• Change order: Written document authorizing scope/cost changes to an existing contract
• CGL: Commercial General Liability — insurance covering contractor’s work-related liability
• COC insurance: Course of Construction insurance covering renovation in progress

D–H

• DCL: Development Cost Levy — municipal fee charged on new construction
• Deficiency list: Punch-list of incomplete or unsatisfactory items at project completion
• ESA: Electrical Safety Authority — regulates electrical permits in BC
• FCL: Flood Construction Level — minimum elevation for habitable construction in flood zones
• HAP: Heritage Alteration Permit — required for exterior changes to designated heritage properties
• HRV: Heat Recovery Ventilator — fresh air system that recaptures heat from exhaust air

I–R

• IIC: Impact Insulation Class — measures sound transmission through floors (min 55 for strata)
• LBC (Builders Lien): Legal claim against property for unpaid construction work
• Load-bearing wall: Structural wall carrying weight from above; removal requires engineering
• LVP: Luxury Vinyl Plank — waterproof flooring material
• R-value: Measure of thermal resistance in insulation
• RS zoning: Residential Single (RS) zones in Vancouver permitting single-family homes

S–Z

• Schedule B: Energy compliance form required for BC building permits involving thermal envelope changes
• Secondary suite: Self-contained dwelling unit within a principal dwelling
• Soft costs: Non-construction costs: design, permits, engineering, project management
• Step Code: BC’s tiered energy performance requirements for new construction and major renovations
• Substantial completion: Legal threshold when renovation is functionally complete (usable for intended purpose)
• WorkSafeBC: Provincial workers’ compensation and workplace safety authority; formerly WCB

→ See also: Vancouver Renovation Planning Guide

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VGC Editorial Team

✓ Licensed Contractor500+ Projects15 Years Experience

Vancouver General Contractors has completed 500+ home renovations across Metro Vancouver since 2010. Our articles are written and reviewed by licensed contractors, project managers, and renovation specialists with hands-on field experience.

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