Certified Residential Builder (CRB) & Registered Housing Professional (RHP)

The Canadian Home Builders' Association of British Columbia has recognized that the decision to seek education must be seen as a business decision. The most effective way in which this can be achieved is through a certification program, at the end of which builders have something tangible they can use to promote their business, or through which they can effect savings. CHBA BC has invested considerable time, energy and dollars in developing one of North America's first industry-driven self-certification programs.

Certification allows builders to demonstrate compliance with high standards established by a credible third-party. Certification provides the Association with a vehicle for disciplining unethical or incompetent builders, as the certification can be stripped from the builder should there be sufficient evidence of wrongdoing.

The certification program can also be used to ensure an ongoing commitment to continuing education by requiring all certified builders to enrol yearly in suitable courses related to building and business practice.

The certification program consists of two separate designations: one, the Registered Housing Professional (RHP), is granted to an individual; and two, the Certificated Residential Builder (CRB), is granted to a business. With the granting of both designations, the issue of ethics, experience, education, business practice and consumer protection can be effectively addressed.

To earn the Registered Housing Professional (RHP) designation, an individual must:have a total of five years experience with 3 years practical "hands on" in the residential construction industry either in a vocational school environment or on-the-job training; be employed by a member of the Canadian Home Builders' Association; and successfully complete the following six mandatory courses with a passing grade of 80%:

To earn the Certified Residential Builder (CRB) designation, a business must:

These designations are an industry-backed way for potential buyers to distinguish one builder from another. Training, experience, industry involvement, commitment, and an indication of financial security, are all involved. When selecting a Certified Residential Builder, customers will rest easier knowing they have chosen a builder with integrity, who has successfully completed a course of training, and has demonstrated business and technical skills