Alberta Builders Endorse Plan for Six-Storey Residential Structures

EDMONTON — The Canadian Home Builders' Association - Alberta (CHBA - Alberta) is optimistic the province has taken a significant step toward approval of an affordable new option for home buyers with introduction of legislation to allow construction of six-storey wood residential buildings
"Building with wood can reduce costs by 15 to 20%, a significant savings at a time when the cost of buying a home is rising out of reach of young people and families," said Jim Rivait, Chief Executive Officer, CHBA - Alberta. "This innovation can also help municipalities reach their targets for higher density by allowing more units to be constructed on sites that were previously limited to four storeys.
British Columbia changed its building code in 2009 to allow the construction of six-storey wood-frame buildings, Ontario will allow construction starting in the new year and the city of Calgary has also announced it will grant permits. The 2015 National Building Code also authorizes the structures.
"This change has been closely examined in other jurisdictions to ensure safety standards are maintained," said Rivait. "We believe Albertans should have this option when buying a home." 
A copy of Bill 203 can be accessed through the Alberta Legislature website.