TOGETHER
LET’S RAISE
THE STANDARD OF
RESIDENTIAL HVAC
IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
Strengthening the Future of Residential HVAC in BC
Many unqualified companies and untrained individuals are flooding the residential HVAC market in British Columbia. Some are underbidding legitimate contractors while operating without proper training, safety standards, or accountability. This harms homeowners, damages the reputation of the industry, and puts qualified contractors at a disadvantage.
OUR GOAL: TO MAKE RESIDENTIAL HVAC A CERTIFIED TRADE IN BC
Working with the BC Government and SkilledTradesBC, we are advocating for:
Mandatory training and safety standards for all companies performing residential HVAC work.
Official designation of Residential HVAC as a skilled trade.
A two-year Residential HVAC certification/training program.
Stronger safety rules, especially inside occupied family homes.
Real consumer protection and industry accountability.
Why CERTIFICATION Matters
Red Seal is Canada's gold standard. Once achieved.
Our goal is to create:
A true level playing field against low-quality operators.
Boost credibility and confidence with consumers and builders
Make it easier to attract and retain skilled technicians.
A stronger, more professional, and more profitable industry
Work to possibly implement a Red Seal Program
Like commercial HVAC, residential technicians deserve a professional training pathway that reflects the skills required to perform today's complex installations, service and maintenance.
UA Local 516 is REAdy to lead
We have heard it clearly from reputable HVAC companies across British Columbia
Unfair competition is hurting profits, professionalism, and long-term business sustainability.
The industry needs standardized training, stronger safety requirements, and greater accountability.
Consumers deserve qualified, properly trained technicians working in their homes.
Legitimate contractors should not be forced to compete against companies operating without recognized standards.
Together we can develop a modern Residential HVAC apprenticeship program that serves employers, employees, and homeowners alike.
This initiative is about building a stronger future— not about limiting businesses.
It’s about raising standards, improving safety, and ensuring our industry continues to grow with qualified professionals.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Many respected HVAC contractors across British Columbia already believe Residential HVAC deserves official trade certification.
Your Signature Can Make a Difference
Only takes minutes
1
Shows your commitment to establishing professional standards
2
Help strengthen our submission to SkilledTradesBC and the Government of British Columbia
3
TOGETHER WE WIN
Your support strengthens our efforts toward residential HVAC CERTIFICATION.
Canada already has precedent for a separate Residential HVAC trade. Ontario and Manitoba have established provincial certification pathways. It's time for British Columbia to catch up!
Together we can build on those models and help lead the development of a 2 Year Provincial Certification in BC and THE POSSIBILITY OF a future Red Seal Standard.
Still have questions?