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BC Financial Services Authority Updates COVID-19 Guidance

(Vancouver, B.C.) – In response to the Provincial Government’s reimposed mask mandate for indoor public settings, BC Financial Services Authority (“BCFSA”) has updated its COVID-19 guidance for real estate licensees. The new mask mandate came into effect on August 25, 2021 and applies to people 12 and older.

While the mask mandate is in force, BCFSA strongly recommends that all individuals taking part in a showing – including real estate licensees, prospective buyers, and occupants – wear masks while in the property and in all common areas of multi-tenanted properties.

As well, BCFSA expects rental property and strata managers to take the necessary steps to ensure building tenants and visitors are aware of the requirement to wear masks while in public spaces in office buildings.

To help combat the fourth wave of COVID-19 and keep British Columbians safe, BCFSA is reminding consumers and real estate licensees that health and safety should continue to be a priority during real estate transactions. Clear and open communication between clients and real estate licensees on these requirements also remains essential.

BCFSA recommends that real estate licensees discuss marketing plans, including plans for conducting in-person showings and open houses, with their clients to ensure they can make well-informed decisions. Discussing COVID-19 restrictions with clients allows licensees to understand any concerns clients may have and work cooperatively with them to find a solution.

Real estate licensees can stay informed and up to date about COVID-19 restrictions by monitoring provincial health orders, notices, and guidance to ensure they are doing their part to help curb the spread of COVID-19.

For more information, please check out the following resources.

About BC Financial Services Authority

BCFSA is a Crown regulatory agency of the Government of British Columbia. BCFSA has five pillars of responsibility: pension plans, mortgage brokers, financial institutions (including credit unions, insurance, and trust companies), real estate services, and the Credit Union Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Media Contact:

Sarah Lusk, Communications Director
Email: [email protected] Tel: (604) 306-2066