Reading the data

In the provincial update section, we analyze the construction market across British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. In doing so, we explore multiple economic indicators, as well as the supply chain capacity within a typical building project.

To ensure optimal viewing of key economic indicators, supply chain capacity and construction descriptors, it is highly recommended to view this page on a desktop or laptop screen rather than a mobile or tablet device. The larger screen size provides superior clarity and detail, facilitating a better understanding of the presented information.

Key economic indicators

Explanation

Source

CPI

Statistics Canada releases a monthly report on the consumer price index (CPI) that measures inflation at the consumer level. The index is constructed by comparing changes over time in a fixed basket of goods and services purchased by consumers.

Statistics Canada

Building Permits

Statistics Canada releases a monthly survey that collects data on the value and number of permits issued by Canadian municipalities for residential and non-residential buildings. Since building permit issuance is one of the very first steps in the process of construction, the data is useful as a leading indicator for assessing the state of the construction industry.

Statistics Canada

Housing Starts

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) issues a monthly report by region, province, census metropolitan area and dwelling type. The indicator is an important gauge of the state of the Canadian housing market.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Supply chain capacity

Descriptions

Below escalation

In normal market conditions, a supply chain which has capacity would be more competitive in their pricing strategies in order to secure work. As such, price increases are offset by the desire of the supply chain to secure work which leads to price increases below escalation.

Above escalation

In normal market conditions, a supply chain which has limited capacity would be less competitive in their pricing strategies when bidding for new work. As such, price increases are exaggerated since there is little supply of labour to execute the work. This leads to price increases above escalation.