If anyone has ever tried to obtain a permit at the City of Vancouver, they know the process is slow. In an effort to speed up the process, they are implementing a digital system in 2024 called eComply. This innovative system is the first of it's kind in Canada ...

What is a Laneway House in Vancouver, BC?

In Vancouver, a laneway house is a small detached house in the back yard of a primary residential house. Typically they are built where the garage would normally appear. In Vancouver, they cannot be strata titled and sold separately.  Some lots ...

As you probably know, it's easy to lower the costs of a renovation. Just hire an inexpensive, fly-by-night contractor — and hope for the best!

Chances are, you won't want to take that risk. So how do you ensure you get quality work while keeping your budget in ...

According to law enforcement experts, a video-based home security system is significantly more effective than a simple alarm system. The reason is obvious. Burglars don’t want their crimes captured on video, which can then be used as evidence in court.

So it’s no wonder that many homeowners have, or are ...

If you see a haze of condensation on your window, should you be concerned? Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on a number of factors.

First of all, an occasional build-up of condensation is normal and often the result of fluctuating humidity in the home. Usually, it’s nothing to worry about ...

You probably don't think buying a lighting fixture for a room is all that complicated. It isn't. However, it does require you to consider which types of lighting you may need. According to the Lighting Association, there are three types:

1. General lighting. By far the most common ...

We like to do what we can to be more environmentally friendly.  So we thought you'd enjoy these ideas for “going green” around your home this year.

    Install a programmable thermostat – you can set it lower at night and during the day when you’re away (each ...

The common cause of damp basements is improper handling of exterior surface water (rain water). Surface water that saturates the soil immediately next to the home can make its way into the basement (make sure your drain tiles are doing their job).

Condensation is a common problem in basements. Condensation ...

There are unwelcome guests that most homeowners dread. They come into your house, eat, sleep, make a mess, and never leave willingly. Each one has at least six legs and sometimes flies.

They are, of course, insects. They’ve been freeloading in homes since homes were invented. Here are some practical ...