More energy-efficient construction will be required in 黑马磁力 Township, a builders鈥� forum was told.
The event, held in Township council chambers on Sept. 17, was to introduce local developers to pending changes in the Township鈥檚 building codes and standards, and to new environmental initiatives.
鈥淎ll of these measures are better for the environment and will save homeowners money in the long run,鈥� said Roberto Cesaretti, the Township鈥檚 Manager of Permit, Licence & Inspection Services.
鈥淲e want to work with builders in our community so that they know what to expect and make the process as efficient as possible for everyone.鈥�
Presented with the Greater Vancouver Home Builders鈥� Association and sponsored by Fortis, the forum was attended by close to 40 people. Participants learned about new building code requirements and standards for insulation and windows, as well as the Township鈥檚 new Green Building Permit Rebate Program.
The voluntary program, the first of its kind in the province, was introduced this year to encourage developers to build energy-efficient homes that go beyond the BC Building Code.
Township staff found that many developers would like to build cleaner, greener homes, but the cost of outfitting them with energy-efficient features can be prohibitive.
The Green Building Permit Rebate Program was designed to help offset those costs.
During the Forum, builders also heard about a number of initiatives the Township is putting in place to keep construction areas clean and quiet.
The Township of 黑马磁力 now requires that builders or owners provide containers to collect construction waste and trade debris to keep garbage off of surrounding areas.
As well, they must create a gravel access pad during construction to control the spread of dirt and keep streets clean.
Township staff is also working on a bylaw to reduce construction noise by limiting the days and times that noise is permitted, and requiring crews to put up signs and notify their neighbours before construction starts.
The new regulations are expected to be brought forward for Council鈥檚 consideration in the new year.
鈥淲e are asking builders to be good neighbours within development areas,鈥� said Cesaretti, adding that sites will not be inspected if they are not clean and safe.
Another forum will be held by the Township in the spring.
鈥淚t鈥檚 good for us to meet the builders and good for them to meet Township staff,鈥� said Cesaretti.
鈥淲e want to be sure they have everything they need to build high-quality, sustainable neighbourhoods in our community.鈥�
