We notified the Barrie building department of obvious building code violations concerning our ceramic tile floors. First View homes has stated that they installed all tile floors in this manner to some unknown industry standard. This standard that they have never identified obviously does not conform to the Ontario Building Code, the only standards approved for ceramic tile installation.

This building code violation could affect thousands of homeowners and new home buyers. The building department has wisely posted a warning for for builders and contractors regarding ceramic tile installations. Even though this has been identified as a concern they will not be changing their inspection services. This bulletin with example drawings can be viewed and downloaded (PDF file) at:

http://www.city.barrie.on.ca/docs/Installation%20of%20Ceramic%20Tile.pdf

It states:

BUILDERS BULLETIN February 16, 2007
Installation of Ceramic Tile

"This bulletin serves to remind installers and builders of their respective roles and of the regulations pertaining to ceramic tile installation."

"Building Code Act, 1992
Subsections 1.1-(1) and 1.1-(3) requires all builders, including contractors, subcontractors, etc., to build in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and the building permit."

"The Building Services Department’s expectation is that all builders, installers, etc. will install ceramic tile in
accordance with the building code. Our inspection services will not be changed at this time to include inspection
of ceramic tile installation. However, if non-compliant installation is observed during the course of an inspection
or a valid complaint is received, the code will be enforced if compliance has not been achieved."

We had received a voice mail from the chief building inspector Mr. Allison where he stated the builder had tried to contact us to repair our floors. Unfortunately the building department is very naive and believe the lies of this builder. At no time in any manner has this builder made an attempt to contact us. What kind of idiot would believe that after waiting 3 years for use of our ensuite bathroom because of this builders actions that we would not acknowledge any contact from them? It is already bad enough that the building services department can't even enforce their own orders to comply they issued over 5 months ago.