George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Building Renovation Technician

Program Details
- Program Code: T110
- Credential: Ontario College Diploma
- Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,120.00*
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2019 | Closed | Closed |
| Winter 2020 | Closed | Closed |
| Spring 2020 | Not Available | Not Available |
- Work-Integrated Learning:
Field Placement
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Program Overview
There is a growing demand for qualified renovators in the building industry who are aware of the growing interest in maintaining our environment and are knowledgeable about sustainable building practices. According to the Canadian Home Builders Association, more than half the spending in the Canadian construction industry takes place in the renovation field. This two-year program at George Brown College is designed to prepare you for employment in the renovation and construction field, with sustainable design principles being key.
Full Description
Building Renovation Technician is a two-year program designed to prepare you for employment in the renovation and construction field, with sustainable design principles being key.
You will learn new construction and building renovation skills, carpentry techniques and new materials applications while gaining a solid understanding of the renovation-related trades. Hands-on training takes place in fully equipped labs where students practice framing and finishing techniques using sustainable design principles.
Practical applications include:
- Residential construction and renovations
- Millwork
- Demolition
- Framing
- Finishes
- Drywall installation and finishing
- Site management
- Cabinetry
- Stair construction
- Building code
- Basics in electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems
- Estimating
Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.
Your Field Education Options
This program offers two field placement opportunities in semester 3 and semester 4. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed industry work experience opportunities they believe would provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can in turn be added to your resume.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide additional learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at our Industry Liaison office.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates may find employment in many areas of the renovation and construction field. Opportunities may include:
- Renovation
- General contracting
- Custom home building
- Carpentry
- Site supervision
- Estimating
- Technical sales
- Home inspections
Educational Pathways
Pathways for direct entry into the third year of the Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) degree program are available from the Building Renovation Technology advanced diploma program (T148).
For more information, see georgebrown.ca/T312_Diploma_to_Degree
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG1075 | Residential Construction Lab 1 |
| BLDG1079 | Plan Interpretation 1 |
| BLDG1081 | Construction Safety and Rigging |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| MATH1136 | Mathematics for Building Technologies 1 |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG1083 | Estimating 1 |
| BLDG1086 | Building Science and Green Technologies |
| BLDG1089 | Plan Interpretation 2 |
| BLDG1095 | Residential Construction Lab 2 |
| MATH1146 | Mathematics for Building Technologies 2 |
| PORT1001 | Portfolio |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG2033 | Field Placement I |
| BLDG2069 | Residential Construction Lab 3 |
| BLDG2074 | Planning And Scheduling |
| BLDG2075 | Estimating II |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG2027 | Field Placement II |
| BLDG2072 | Residential Construction Lab 4 |
| BLDG2077 | Site Management |
| BLDG3176 | Applied Building Science and Best Principles |
| COMM1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Elective |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities.
- Comply with health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
- Assist in the preparation of material estimations and quotes and complete all work in compliance with the rights and conditions of contractual obligations, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws, bylaws, standards and ethical practices in the construction, renovation and conservation building fields.
- Incorporate sustainability practices in the implementation of building construction, renovation and conservation projects in accordance with sustainable building guidelines.
- Communicate and collaborate with diverse clients, supervisors, coworkers and tradespersons to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships.
- Interpret project plans and produce technical sketches and documents to support building construction and renovation projects.
- Select and use technologies to obtain, organize and communicate building construction and renovation information.
- Solve problems related to the implementation of building construction and renovation projects by applying the principles of basic technical mathematics, building design and building science.
- Select, maintain and safely use hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, when performing layout, cutting, fitting and assembly operations.
- Complete building and renovation stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, in accordance with blueprint specifications and conservation principles.
- Select a range of materials and equipment for their appropriate application to building construction and renovation projects.
- Schedule and assist in monitoring the progression of building construction and renovation projects by applying basic principles and strategies of project management.
- Apply basic business principles and strategies to the operation of a building construction and/or renovation enterprise.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.
International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Apply To
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711
Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca
Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
Program Description
Program Overview
There is a growing demand for qualified renovators in the building industry who are aware of the growing interest in maintaining our environment and are knowledgeable about sustainable building practices. According to the Canadian Home Builders Association, more than half the spending in the Canadian construction industry takes place in the renovation field. This two-year program at George Brown College is designed to prepare you for employment in the renovation and construction field, with sustainable design principles being key.
Full Description
Building Renovation Technician is a two-year program designed to prepare you for employment in the renovation and construction field, with sustainable design principles being key.
You will learn new construction and building renovation skills, carpentry techniques and new materials applications while gaining a solid understanding of the renovation-related trades. Hands-on training takes place in fully equipped labs where students practice framing and finishing techniques using sustainable design principles.
Practical applications include:
- Residential construction and renovations
- Millwork
- Demolition
- Framing
- Finishes
- Drywall installation and finishing
- Site management
- Cabinetry
- Stair construction
- Building code
- Basics in electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems
- Estimating
Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.
Your Field Education Options
This program offers two field placement opportunities in semester 3 and semester 4. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed industry work experience opportunities they believe would provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can in turn be added to your resume.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide additional learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at our Industry Liaison office.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates may find employment in many areas of the renovation and construction field. Opportunities may include:
- Renovation
- General contracting
- Custom home building
- Carpentry
- Site supervision
- Estimating
- Technical sales
- Home inspections
Educational Pathways
Pathways for direct entry into the third year of the Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) degree program are available from the Building Renovation Technology advanced diploma program (T148).
For more information, see georgebrown.ca/T312_Diploma_to_Degree
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG1075 | Residential Construction Lab 1 |
| BLDG1079 | Plan Interpretation 1 |
| BLDG1081 | Construction Safety and Rigging |
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| MATH1136 | Mathematics for Building Technologies 1 |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG1083 | Estimating 1 |
| BLDG1086 | Building Science and Green Technologies |
| BLDG1089 | Plan Interpretation 2 |
| BLDG1095 | Residential Construction Lab 2 |
| MATH1146 | Mathematics for Building Technologies 2 |
| PORT1001 | Portfolio |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG2033 | Field Placement I |
| BLDG2069 | Residential Construction Lab 3 |
| BLDG2074 | Planning And Scheduling |
| BLDG2075 | Estimating II |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG2027 | Field Placement II |
| BLDG2072 | Residential Construction Lab 4 |
| BLDG2077 | Site Management |
| BLDG3176 | Applied Building Science and Best Principles |
| COMM1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Elective |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.
International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Apply To
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities.
- Comply with health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
- Assist in the preparation of material estimations and quotes and complete all work in compliance with the rights and conditions of contractual obligations, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws, bylaws, standards and ethical practices in the construction, renovation and conservation building fields.
- Incorporate sustainability practices in the implementation of building construction, renovation and conservation projects in accordance with sustainable building guidelines.
- Communicate and collaborate with diverse clients, supervisors, coworkers and tradespersons to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships.
- Interpret project plans and produce technical sketches and documents to support building construction and renovation projects.
- Select and use technologies to obtain, organize and communicate building construction and renovation information.
- Solve problems related to the implementation of building construction and renovation projects by applying the principles of basic technical mathematics, building design and building science.
- Select, maintain and safely use hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, when performing layout, cutting, fitting and assembly operations.
- Complete building and renovation stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, in accordance with blueprint specifications and conservation principles.
- Select a range of materials and equipment for their appropriate application to building construction and renovation projects.
- Schedule and assist in monitoring the progression of building construction and renovation projects by applying basic principles and strategies of project management.
- Apply basic business principles and strategies to the operation of a building construction and/or renovation enterprise.
Contact Us
School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711
Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca
Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.

Visit Casa Loma Campus
Book campus tourVisit Casa Loma Campus
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