Severe labour shortages affecting 72 percent of B.C. construction companies

Skilled tradespeople are in short supply in B.C., negatively impacting housing affordability and increasing economic uncertainty, says a new survey conducted by the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA). The survey, titled 2025 Wage and Benefits Survey, reported that "a staggering 72 percent of B.C. contractors report a shortage of skilled tradespeople," and found that "the persistent issue is forcing businesses to delay or turn down projects and absorb rising costs, undermining B.C.'s ability to address its housing and infrastructure needs". Government needs to step up

Severe labour shortages affecting 72 percent of B.C. construction companies
Skilled tradespeople are in short supply in B.C., negatively impacting housing affordability and increasing economic uncertainty, says a new survey conducted by the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA). The survey, titled 2025 Wage and Benefits Survey, reported that "a staggering 72 percent of B.C. contractors report a shortage of skilled tradespeople," and found that "the persistent issue is forcing businesses to delay or turn down projects and absorb rising costs, undermining B.C.'s ability to address its housing and infrastructure needs". Government needs to step up