Home-building has been deemed a crucial service amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Quebec’s government has included residential construction to the list of its priority services, and has allowed projects to continue starting April 20.
In an April 13 news release, the government stated that this permit to continue building residential units applies to homes scheduled for delivery no later than July 31.
“This announcement applies to construction and renovation work, including surveying and building inspection,” according to Jean Boulet, minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity and minister responsible for the Mauricie Region. “At the same time, it will reopen the supply chain of the residential sector of the construction industry, which involves numerous small and medium-sized businesses.”
The global coronavirus outbreak has ground many vital industries to a standstill. Construction activity across Canada markedly decelerated over the last few weeks.
“Including residential construction in the list of priority services and activities was called for because of the sector’s tangible social impacts for many households,” Boulet said. “Our goal is to make sure that people can move into their new homes as quickly as possible, which in turn will make rental housing available. I am convinced that residential construction and renovation can resume while keeping industry stakeholders healthy and safe.”
