Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Question and Answers on the Builders Lien Act

British Columbia Law Institute
Twenty-two chapters of questions and answers on the Builders Lien Act, written when the law came into effect.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo is "PROPERTY ASSESSMENT" in dark grey and "APPEAL BOARD" in teal.

Property Assessment Appeal Board — Online Dispute Resolution

Property Assessment Appeal Board
This service is available for you to appeal the property assessment of your residential properties. It allows you to have the option to resolve your appeal completely online. An online guide helps you understand the steps, the appeal issues, and how to determine whether you have a strong case.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Preparing for Your PARP Hearing — Step-by-Step

Government of British Columbia
Takes you through the steps of your Property Assessment Review Panel hearing (review your Assessment Notice, discuss your concerns, request a review/file a property assessment complaint, prepare for your hearing, call in to your hearing, panel decisions, and appealing). It includes a video, a hearing breakdown sheet, a glossary, and FAQs.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Owning a Condominium

People’s Law School
Explains the legal framework involved if you own a condominium. Topics include strata, strata corporations and strata councils, strata fees, and the laws and rules that apply. Find answers to some common questions like renting out condo units, insurance, and resolving disputes with your strata.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Neighbours

People’s Law School
Practical, step-by-step information for dealing with problems involving neighbours. Topics include problems involving fences, trees, odours, noise, untidy premises, and parking. Also: tips for talking with your neighbour and options for dealing with neighbour issues.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Neighbour Law

People’s Law School
Explains your legal rights and options if you have a problem with a neighbour. Topics include how to work out problems involving noise, untidiness, dogs, fences, trees, second-hand smoke, water damage, and trespassing.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Mortgages and Financing a Home Purchase

People’s Law School
Explains what’s involved in getting a mortgage. Topics include what happens if you default on your mortgage. Learn the key things to consider, like deciding on the mortgage term, prepaying the mortgage, and how to get the best mortgage.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You’re Facing Foreclosure

People’s Law School
Explains foreclosure, the legal process the lender can take if you default on your mortgage. Find out your rights and options if you’re facing foreclosure — you don’t automatically lose your home if you default on your mortgage. It gives you steps to take to work out the problem.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features a red chevron shape resembling a rooftop above the acronym "CMHC" and its French equivalent "SCHL," with a small maple leaf in between the two acronyms.

Housing Information for Newcomers to Canada

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Information for newcomers on renting an apartment, buying a home, and planning and managing a mortgage.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Home Repair Contractors

People’s Law School
Explains your legal rights if you want to hire someone to do repairs or renovations on your home. It covers what you should know, like holding back 10% of the contract price for a period of time. It also explains how to prevent problems, like checking about permits and getting written estimates and a contract.
Last reviewed March 2024