VanPlex Plexperts · BC Multiplex Allies
Architectural Institute of British Columbia
Featured on VanPlex Plexperts — the curated directory of organizations advancing missing-middle housing in BC.
In the public interest, AIBC regulates the practice of architecture in BC through registration, standards, continuing education, and discipline.
About AIBC
AIBC was established in 1920 under the provincial Architects Act. It is the body that registers and licenses every architect practising in British Columbia.
On February 10, 2023, the Architects Act was repealed and architecture was brought under the Professional Governance Act (PGA). AIBC was the first regulator added to the PGA since that law took effect in February 2020. It now operates under oversight from the Office of the Superintendent of Professional Governance.
The AIBC office is at 440 Cambie Street in Vancouver. A 12-member board oversees the organization, supported by volunteer committees.
AIBC registers five categories you can look up: Architects AIBC, Intern Architects AIBC, Architectural Technologists AIBC, Retired Architects AIBC, and Firm Registrants. Architects, technologists, and intern architects must complete and report continuing education each year.
Programs
What AIBC runs.
AIBC Register (online directory)
Public register where you can verify a person or firm — registration status, employer, location, practice restrictions, and discipline history from 1990 onward. Use it before hiring.
Learn moreCertified Professional Program
An alternative to the standard permitting process. A Certified Professional (a registered architect, or a professional engineer registered with Engineers and Geoscientists BC) reviews plans and inspects the site, taking responsibility for code compliance so the chief building official can rely on that assurance when issuing the permit. This usually speeds up permitting and can allow staged construction.
Learn moreContinuing Education System
Annual continuing education that registered architects, intern architects, and architectural technologists must complete and report.
Learn moreRecent initiatives
Architecture moves under the Professional Governance Act
The Architects Act was repealed and architecture was designated under the PGA. Registrants are now held to standardized requirements on ethics, continuing education, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and governance transparency.
Read moreHow to get involved
Concrete ways to support AIBC.
- →Before hiring any architect, look them up in the AIBC Register and confirm the status reads active — not suspended or cancelled.
- →Check the firm registration too, not just the individual. Firms are listed as a separate category.
- →On larger or more complex multiplex projects, consider hiring a Certified Professional to coordinate code compliance and shorten the permit timeline.
Other allies
Abundant Housing Vancouver
Volunteer-run YIMBY group, formed in 2016, that writes letters, runs missing-middle tours, and shows up at City Hall to back more housing across Metro Vancouver.
Homebuilders Association Vancouver (HAVAN)
Industry association for Metro Vancouver residential builders, renovators, and designers. Runs the HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence.
Passive House Canada
National non-profit for the Passive House building standard. Certifies designers and tradespeople, runs training, and advocates for higher-performance codes — the practitioner pool BC multiplex builders draw from for Step Code 5 and CMHC MLI Select energy targets.
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