Several local residents have run into roadblocks when they try to sell their mobile homes because the mobile home does not have a CSA number or a BC Electrical Inspection number and wiring was not done under permit, according to Larissa Hadley of Century 21 Rison Realty.
"They say, 'My next-door neighbor sold his mobile home. Why can't I?'" said Hadley. "I try to explain to them about the regulations they must adhere to, but some just don't understand how the regulations work."
The realtor pointed out that the B.C. Safety Authority has directed that all new mobile homes must conform to CSA testing and standards and show evidence that they conform to those standards by either CSA number with no additions done without a permit or display a BC Electrical number.
Used mobile homes may only be offered for sale in B.C. without re-inspection if they bear an approval mark (CSA number) and if the wiring has not been altered. Additional wiring done under permit does not invalidate the label. However, if the wiring has been altered without a permit, the mobile home must be inspected and a new approval label (BC Electrical number) applied.
Alternate documentation that indicates the mobile home was approved cannot be accepted in place of an approval label. However, if documentation exists and if no unpermitted modifications have been done, then a label might be applied by a Safety Officer.
Obtaining approval from BCSA involves a number of steps by a licensed electrical contractor.
Similar regulations apply to new and used recreation vehicles and to new and used factory built structures such as manufactured homes, modular and pre-fabricated home. Basically if the structure was built off-site, it requires 1) CSA number or 2) BC Electrical Inspection number.