The province’s real estate regulatory body is advising local strata councils not to hold meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The call from the Real Estate Council of British Columbia (RECBC) comes on the heels of recommendations from various real estate organizations — including the BC Real Estate Association and some local real estate boards — to stop holding open houses.
"In light of the recommendations from government, and the significant health and professional risks, RECBC is advising real estate professionals to avoid open houses, in-person showings, and strata council annual general meetings at this time," said RECBC's CEO, Erin Seeley, in a press release.
"This is an extraordinary situation and we must put public health first. While we are aware that this may have a significant impact on business practices for real estate professionals and consumers, we must continue to prioritize public safety."
RECBC has a mandate from the provincial government to protect the public by enforcing the licensing and licensee conduct requirements under the Real Estate Services Act.
For information on COVID-19 and the provision of real estate services, RECBC recommends visiting COVID-19 and Real Estate Services.