Questions?

Trade Definitions are based on Systems and Assemblies, describing “how work is assembled” as a part of the scopes associated with each specific element within construction and are more consistent with the General Contractor’s estimating practices, project reporting and scheduling and setting up coordination expectations between different trades. MasterFormat specifications describes “what work is required” to complete construction by breaking down the materials, products and activities that comprise Work Results and that describe performance criteria associated with quality of products and quality of execution. MasterFormat is not intended to be used as a scoping tool for trade work; it respects trade sequence and recognizes that scope is best handled by the general contractor working with the trades. Trade Definitions and MasterFormat describe different sides of the same coin, they have different purposes and should be seen as a collaborative tool when used together.

The Guide is provided for industry use, and users are welcome to leverage and incorporate the trade definitions as they see fit. The preferred approach, however, is to issue amendments—similar to how supplementary conditions are used with CCDC documents—to address project-specific items requiring clarification or inclusion. This approach ensures transparency by clearly stating deviations from the industry standard without altering the original content. For example, using PDF editing tools to modify the Guide while retaining its branding, such as headers or footers, is not permitted, as it would misrepresent the document and lead to confusion.

Readers will note there is currently no specific scope for the general contractor. This is because the full scope of the contract documents inherently falls under their responsibility, encompassing all project coordination, oversight, and management. As the party ultimately accountable for ensuring the completion of the project, the general contractor’s role is defined broadly by the contract and not limited to a single scope of work.

Readers will note there is no definition for demolition, civil/site services and others including hazmat. Once the purpose of the BC Trade Definitions is well understood by industry here in BC, we can turn our attention to other scopes.

If you are interested in volunteering to help draft these scopes, please contact us.

This is a living document.  All companies, individuals and trade associations may request changes to any or all trade definitions by providing their request in writing. The request must include the change, reason for the change and the effect on the other trade definitions.  The BC Trade Definitions Committee will review and rule on all requests.  Changes to the definitions will be finalized and published regularly.

Yes, practices may vary across different parts of BC. However, the goal of this guide is to establish a baseline standard for reference. While parties are free to clarify their intended scope as needed, this guide aims to provide a common framework that everyone in industry can use to facilitate consistency and support the construction process, regardless of geographical location.

The term “lead” is included for mechanical and electrical trade definitions to reflect the administrative and supervisory responsibilities often required when managing other trades within these scopes. While typically the largest-value contractor (e.g., HVAC or electrical) assumes this role due to their capacity, the framework allows flexibility for other trades to act as “lead” if warranted by the project. This ensures clarity and adaptability while supporting consistent project management practices.

No, this guide does not impose new responsibilities unless they are explicitly outlined in the contract documents. For example, if the contract documents do not contemplate trade involvement with BIM, you are not required to participate. However, if such responsibilities are explicitly included, this guide provides a reference framework to clarify the scope of those tasks. Always refer to your contract documents for definitive requirements.

In short, no. While owners, Consultants and specification writers may find this Guide of interest, it is not intended for their use to stipulate how the work is divided amongst contractors. A tenant of this Guide and standard industry practice set forth by the Canadian Construction Documents Committee (CCDC) is contractors are solely responsible for construction means, methods, techniques, sequences, and procedures and for coordinating the various parts of the Work under the contract. Within procurement documents, it could be stated: “Contractors and their trade contractors are encouraged to use the BC Trade Definitions to assist in scope delineation, in consideration of project specific requirements and the contract documents.”

No, these trade definitions do not modify or relate to the BOBS Rules of Procedure or its Appendix A Standard Exclusions. BOBS, a bid depository system, remains unchanged. These definitions are a completely separate document and guide.