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Construction

Photo of a construction team pouring concrete

The construction sector is a significant contributor to Nanaimo's economy, ranking as the fourth largest employment sector and providing 4,398 jobs, which accounts for 8.5% of the City's labour force (Esri 2023). It also has the highest number of business licenses in the City.

In total, there are 1,212 licensed construction businesses in the City as of July 2024.

The construction industry in Nanaimo benefits from ongoing population growth. In 2023, the construction value of building permits totaled $364.8million, with residential permits comprising 84.6% of this value. However, the total value of building permits decreased by 11% compared to 2022, primarily due to high interest rates and inflation.

The City's development activity is guided by City Plan, adopted in July 2022. The construction sector represents 17.4% of all licensed businesses in Nanaimo. Most licensed construction firms are relatively small, with fewer than 20 employees. Additionally, there are 18 licensed real estate and related businesses in the City.

Here is the breakdown of construction-related firms in Nanaimo:

SOURCE: NANAIMO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, JULY 2024
Business TypeCount% of sector
Construction of Buildings39833%
Utility System Construction60%
Land Subdivision101%
Highway, Street and Bridge Construction91%
Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction363%
Foundation, Structure and Related Contractors15112%
Building Equipment Contractors28223%
Building Finishing Contractors20217%
Other Specialty Trade Contractors11810%
Total1,212100%

Last updated: November 14, 2024

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