For Canadian builders
The Canadian rules, written down plainly.
Holdback, sales tax, lien deadlines and workers’ comp clearances change from province to province. Each guide names the act or agency it comes from and the date we last checked it. They are a starting point, not legal or tax advice: your contract, your lawyer and your accountant have the last word.
- 13 min read · checked 5 October 2026Construction holdback by provinceThe holdback percentage, the act, and how long it is kept in every province and territory, plus trust rules, holding back from your own sub-trades, and Quebec.
- 12 min read · checked 5 October 2026Sales tax on construction in CanadaGST, HST, PST, RST and QST rates by province, the $30,000 small supplier test, tax on holdback, how BC, Manitoba and Saskatchewan treat contractors, input tax credits and new housing rebates.
- 11 min read · checked 5 October 2026Builders’ liens and prompt payment in CanadaHow liens work at a high level, which provinces have prompt payment in force today, the 28-day and 7-day rules, adjudication, and why written change orders and records decide disputes.
- 9 min read · checked 5 October 2026Workers’ compensation clearances for sub-tradesWhat a WSIB, WCB, WorkSafeBC or CNESST clearance is, why a general contractor can be billed for a sub’s unpaid premiums, how often to re-check, and the rules for independent operators.
General information for Canadian builders, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Rules change and every contract is different. For a decision that matters, check the source linked here and speak to a lawyer or accountant in your province.
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