Statistics Canada’s latest report on construction costs shows rises in all residential and non-residential types—with further cost increases expected in the second quarter of the year.

Costs and delays relating to the COVID-19 pandemic are harming trade contractors. The National Trade Contractors Coalition of Canada is asking government for support.

One permit—for construction work on the West Memorial Building in the Parliamentary Precinct—was worth more than $176 million.

The council has asked the province to exempt contractors from liability costs due to COVID-related delays, and to work with the federal government to grant cost relief to owners

February is the fourth month in a row in which total building construction investments have increased.