Frequently Asked Questions

When will I be able to file forms over the Internet?

Services are available over the Internet through BC OnLine, as the new Manufactured Home Act came into force.

Which transactions are available right away?

The first release of MH Online includes the following electronic transactions:

searches;
some transport permits;
new home registrations;
transfers; and
registration exemptions.

Will I still be able to file paper forms?

At first, yes. However, electronic filing became mandatory on February 23, 2004. Paper forms will only be available if the service has not been made available over the Internet. Some exceptions may apply.

What are the fees?

Fees can be viewed here. In addition, there is a $1.59 BC OnLine surcharge for each service.

How can I pay?

Clients logging on with their BC OnLine account will pay through their deposit account. In the future, it may be possible for clients to pay by credit card.

What about people without Internet access?

They may choose to hire a qualified supplier who can submit the forms that are not accepted at the Manufactured Home Registry.

Will I need to go through a lawyer or registry agent?

Existing BC OnLine customers may submit some transactions through BC OnLine, including searches and transport permits that do not require a tax certificate.

Otherwise you may choose to use:

a "qualified supplier" who has signed up and been approved by the Registrar, who may submit some forms electronically on your behalf for a fee; or
a government agent, for some transactions.

If legal assistance is required for preparing forms, individuals should consult a lawyer.

What are the minimum system requirements?

Please see the information on hardware and software requirements at BC OnLine, or on their FAQ section here.

What security is there for my filing?

Security components for MH Online are provided through the BC OnLine system.

For more information, see BC OnLine's security information.

Will MH Online result in savings for the government?

Yes: the Manufactured Home Registry will be downsized significantly over the coming years as the public increasingly use the Internet to file forms. These forms will be processed automatically instead of being handled by Registry staff.

How many manufactured homes are there in BC?

There are currently about 67,600 registered homes in British Columbia, and about 20,300 exempt homes, for a total of about 87,900 homes.