Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to talk about insurance for what is usually the most expensive item that an individual or a family can ever purchase. That is, of course, the family home. Imperatively, if you buy a new lawn mower and it doesn’t work, chances are you are able to take it back to whoever sold it to you and get a replacement or even your money back. Mr. Speaker, if your car malfunctions, you can take it back for warranty and get repairs. However, what happens when a contractor does not complete a house as promised, and, equally bad, you get a lemon, Mr. Speaker? The courts tend to be the only remedy before you.
Many provinces in Canada have enacted legislation to protect new home purchasers. As an example, in Ontario there is a new Home Purchasing Warranty Plan Act which describes mandatory responsibilities for the builder when they sell you a new home. Mr. Speaker, it outlines warranty coverage for the builders and vendors as they are required to provide to the new homeowner when they buy that new home or condominium. These regulations describe additional warranties and provide detailed requirements for the registration of the builders and vendors.
Mr. Speaker, the Crown corporation is empowered to administer and make sure that this is enforced. In Alberta, the New Home Warranty Program offers protection for purchasers who buy a house constructed by a builder who is a member of this program. Mr. Speaker, in British Columbia those builders must be licensed.
As anyone can see, there are varying degrees of home warranty protection, but the bottom line is, Mr. Speaker, the consumers are protected. Mr. Speaker, families are protected. What can a person presently do in the North if their house is deficient or a contractor goes bankrupt or leaves them in the lurch? Nothing, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is a very difficult situation that families face. Let’s avoid the crisis before it happens.
Later today I will be asking questions to the Minister of MACA about looking into creating a legislative initiative that will protect our northern homeowners when they go out and purchase a new home or a condo. I believe consumer protection is a primary responsibility of a government and I certainly hope that this government will demonstrate that it feels the same.