Severe labour shortages affecting 72 percent of B.C. construction companies
More skilled tradespeople are urgently needed for the industry to keep up with B.C.’s housing and infrastructure needs
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
The survey also found that 63 percent of respondents say government is on the "wrong track" in dealing with a business like theirs — only five percent answered that government is on the "right track."
"When nearly two-thirds of businesses in a major job-creating sector say the government is on the wrong track, it's time to listen," says Chris Gardner, ICBA president and CEO. "Labour shortages remain a significant challenge facing construction, and the government must get serious about fast-tracking training programs and aligning immigration policies with industry needs."
A resilient industry despite challenges
Despite these challenges, demand in the construction sector remains strong. Nearly 50 percent of contractors expect increased work volumes in 2025, with average anticipated growth reaching 19 percent. Wages in construction also remain highly competitive, with the average hourly rate climbing to $37, equating to an annual base salary of $77,000 — without bonuses, benefits, or overtime factored in.
"Our industry continues to deliver, despite worker shortages, regulatory burdens, and project delays. But B.C.'s construction sector could contribute so much more if government policies enabled us to thrive," Gardner added. "Instead, contractors and businesses get more red tape, higher taxes, and a seemingly never-ending stream of anti-business rhetoric that have many saying it's never been harder to start and build a business in B.C. than it is today."
The ICBA says that the survey underscores the urgent need for the provincial and federal governments to tackle skills shortages, streamline approvals, and prioritize policies that support housing and infrastructure development.
