RECBC Statement on Real Estate as Essential Service

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Vancouver, BC, March 27, 2020 — Real estate services have been identified as essential services by the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General in a list published yesterday. As services that British Columbians rely on, these businesses are encouraged to remain open during the COVID-19 crisis, as long as they obey public health orders to reduce the spread of the virus.

RECBC supports the government’s inclusion of licensed real estate services (which include real estate sales, rental property and strata management) among the essential services that British Columbians depend on during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help real estate professionals and consumers to understand their options and make informed decisions while minimizing risk in these unique circumstances, RECBC has information, guidance, and useful tools available on our COVID-19 and Real Estate Services webpages.

“Ensuring public protection during these challenging times is RECBC’s highest priority” said RECBC’s CEO, Erin Seeley. “That’s why we’ve taken the position that during this crisis, no open houses should be held. Real estate professionals must follow the guidance provided by the Provincial Health Officer to ensure safe operations and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19. This means having frank discussions with their clients about the risks and exploring alternatives to in-person viewings like virtual tours. We’re confident real estate professionals will meet the challenge of adapting their business practices in order to protect the health and safety of the public.”
RECBC will continue to keep all real estate professionals and consumers apprised of updated directives from the government to ensure that consumer interests are protected while allowing the real estate industry to continue offering a high level of service for their clients.

About RECBC

RECBC is a regulatory agency established by the provincial government. Its mandate is to protect the public by enforcing the licensing and licensee conduct requirements of the Real Estate Services Act.