Business Registration

What is Business Registration?

A Business Registration Certificate confirms that a construction company is legally registered to operate in its province or territory. This may include provincial business name registration, corporate registration, or contractor-specific licences depending on the jurisdiction. It serves as proof that the company exists as a legal entity, has met regulatory filing requirements, and is authorized to conduct business. For construction companies, this is foundational documentation required before obtaining insurance, WCB coverage, or bidding on contracts.

Every construction company operating in Canada must be registered with their provincial government. Whether structured as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, the business must have valid registration. General contractors and project owners commonly request proof of business registration during prequalification. Government contracts always require it. Subcontractors must be able to demonstrate they are a legitimate, registered business entity.

Why Expiration Tracking Matters

Business registrations have different renewal requirements depending on the province and business structure. Sole proprietorships and partnerships may need to renew business name registrations every 5 years in some provinces. Corporations must file annual returns. Lapsed registration can affect a company's legal standing, ability to enforce contracts, insurance coverage, and WCB status. It can also disqualify a company from bidding on projects.

Provincial Requirements & Regulations

Each province has its own business registration system. Ontario uses the Ontario Business Registry. Alberta has the Corporate Registry. British Columbia uses BC Registry Services. Quebec has the Registraire des entreprises. Federal corporations register through Corporations Canada but must also register extra-provincially in each province where they operate. Construction-specific licences may also be required in some jurisdictions — for example, British Columbia requires contractor licences for residential construction.

Renewal Process

Renewal depends on business structure and province. Corporations typically file annual returns. Business name registrations may need renewal every 5 years (Ontario) or at different intervals in other provinces. Companies should set calendar reminders for these deadlines, as government agencies may not send reminders. Failure to file annual returns can result in dissolution of the corporation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to file annual returns for corporations, risking involuntary dissolution
• Not registering extra-provincially when working in a province different from where the company is incorporated
• Letting business name registration expire without realizing it affects contracts signed under that name
• Not keeping a copy of the registration certificate accessible for prequalification requests

Issuing Authority

Provincial Government

Contact

Provincial business registry

Frequently Asked Questions