What is the primary responsibility of a 'building owner' under the Building Code Act?

The primary responsibility of a building owner under the Building Code Act centers around the obligation to maintain the building. This includes ensuring that the structure is safe and complies with all applicable codes and standards. Maintenance is crucial for protecting the health and safety of the occupants as well as the public. A well-maintained building minimizes the risk of building code violations and assures that the property remains functional and in good condition.

While altering the building and designing new buildings are important actions related to construction and renovation, they are secondary to the ongoing responsibility of maintenance. Reporting building violations typically falls under the duties of municipal authorities, not directly the building owner's role. Therefore, while there are various considerations a building owner must be aware of, the fundamental and ongoing responsibility lies in maintaining the building to uphold safety and compliance.