Why work with a registered building practitioner?
In 1999, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing decided to create a licensed body of designers, and streamline the building permit process across Ontario. As a result, in 2006, Bill 124 came into effect. In addition to reorganizing the permit process, Bill 124 was to provide protection to the public, requiring qualification for those providing and taking responsibility for design services. Design Firms meeting these qualifications have a Building Code Identification Number (BCIN Certification) and are registered with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing. This Bill also made it mandatory for design firms to acquire & register liability insurance in order to be able to submit drawings for building permit application in Ontario.
The BCIN is used for several purposes: it is required on building permit applications as well as all correspondence with the Ministry, and in any other building-related work that requires a qualified person or registered firm.
Every design and construction project presents its own challenges. Working with a qualified designer ensures you've set yourself up for success avoiding permit delays which inevitably delay construction. Going through the process of becoming a BCIN Qualified Designer involves a great deal of study, showing that your designer is committed to educating themselves and is knowledgeable with respect to Ontario Building Codes.
