BC HVAC work splits between service calls and large installs, and the install side carries real compliance weight: a tight 45-day lien window under the Builders Lien Act and 10% statutory holdback on draws. BC also invoices under GST plus PST, not HST, which software built for HST provinces gets wrong. Markup formats both invoice types, splits the taxes correctly, and tracks the deadlines.
Tax
5% GST + 7% PST
Lien deadline
45 days
Lien statute
Builders Lien Act, SBC 1997 c.45, s.20
Holdback
10% statutory holdback on the pre-tax value of each draw
Trade certification and gas licensing in BC
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic is a compulsory trade in BC under Skilled Trades Certification (in effect since December 1, 2023): you must be a registered apprentice or certified journeyperson to do the work. Gas work additionally requires a Technical Safety BC gas contractor licence with certified gasfitters (Class A or B). Markup does not manage certification; it is your invoicing and compliance layer.
What Markup does for HVAC techs in British Columbia
- Calculates 5% GST and 7% PST as separate lines, the way BC requires.
- Handles quick service-call invoices and full project invoices for installs.
- Tracks the 45-day Builders Lien Act preservation deadline per install, with alerts at 14 and 7 days.
- Calculates 10% statutory holdback on the pre-tax value of each draw.
- Keeps a running T5018 total for any subcontracted installer, flagging the $500 line.
HVAC techs in British Columbia: common questions
How long do I have to file a builders lien on a BC HVAC install?
45 days under section 20 of the Builders Lien Act, from completion of the head contract or a certificate of completion. It is shorter than Ontario's 60 days and strictly enforced. Markup tracks it per project.
How does Markup handle GST and PST for a BC HVAC contractor?
BC charges 5% GST plus 7% PST. Markup calculates them as two separate lines and keeps the tax amounts separate from the base amount on every invoice.
Do I need a certificate to do HVAC work in BC?
Yes. Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic is a compulsory trade under BC's Skilled Trades Certification, so you must be a registered apprentice or certified journeyperson, and gas work requires a Technical Safety BC gas contractor licence with certified gasfitters. Markup does not track certification; it handles your invoicing, tax, liens, holdback, and T5018.
Built for HVAC techs in British Columbia.
Proper invoices, lien deadlines, holdback, T5018, and 5% GST + 7% PST. Free for 14 days, no card.