Incoming B.C. government pledges to cut homebuilding costs and delays
British Columbia’s incoming Conservative government, led by Lorne Doerkson, has placed lower construction costs and faster approvals at the centre of its housing agenda.
Elections BC’s preliminary count showed the Conservatives leading in 64 ridings, compared with 27 for the BC NDP and two for the BC Greens. Final counting is scheduled for Nov. 6.
“Builders need approvals that are fast and predictable,” the party states in its 2026 platform. It promises to “cut construction taxes and charges” and “approve homes in months, not years,” although it does not identify which fees would be removed or establish firm approval timelines.
The Conservatives also pledged to work with municipalities to align zoning bylaws with official community plans. “Where the density goes and what it looks like needs to be a decision of local government and local residents,” the platform states.
Other commitments include shortening approvals for family-oriented developments, linking growth with supporting infrastructure and overhauling the B.C. Energy Step Code. The party also proposes simplifying and harmonizing the provincial building code.
For multigenerational households, the Conservatives have promised to match the federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit with provincial tax relief for families creating self-contained living spaces for senior relatives. The platform also calls for prioritizing B.C. wood in government-funded housing and infrastructure projects.
Mortgage Professionals Canada said in an email to members that it will monitor the incoming government’s decisions on development approvals, construction costs and provincial-municipal responsibilities, along with any regulatory changes affecting mortgage professionals.
Details on the scope, cost and timing of the measures are expected to emerge through cabinet appointments, the throne speech and the government’s first budget.
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Last modified: October 26, 2026
