Overview

PRESS CONNECT FITTINGS. What you need to know in Surrey and Kelowna

Do we have your attention yet?

Mechanical contractors throughout BC are experiencing uncertainty and disruption related to the use of press connect fittings when installing water distribution systems. With no consistent standard in place—and varying interpretations and approval processes—members are asking:

• Are press connect fittings allowed?
• What is the approval process?
• Is there an alternate solution pathway—or not?

While MCABC continues to actively advocate on your behalf, we also recognize our responsibility to equip members with practical, timely information you can use right now.

Municipal Reality Explained

This month’s Coffee Talk will focus on two municipalities: Surrey and Kelowna.

Each city has its own protocols, expectations, and approval pathways. To ensure members receive accurate, first-hand information, we’ve invited representatives from each municipality to outline their respective processes related to press connect fittings, and answer your questions.

Register Now to Learn:

• What is and is not acceptable in Surrey and Kelowna when it comes to the use of press connect fittings
• Whether an alternate solution pathway exists in each municipality—and what it actually means in practice
• The timelines you should expect for reviews and approvals
• Practical tips to help you navigate municipal processes efficiently and reduce project risk

What This Coffee Talk Is Not

This session is not a forum to debate whether press connect fittings should be acceptable while we await updates to the national plumbing code. We understand the frustration—and MCABC is already lobbying on your behalf. This Coffee Talk is about clarity, process, and practical guidance.

Advocacy in Action—And Education in the Meantime

As part of MCABC’s integrated advocacy program, in November 2025, MCABC—working in collaboration with MCAC—formally raised concerns with the Honourable Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, regarding the interpretation and application of the BC Building Code 2024, Book II (Plumbing Systems). MCABC has also partnered with other industry associations to help accelerate required changes ahead of updates to the national plumbing code. We have since received confirmation that a code change proposal has been submitted with a request that it be prioritized.

Leading the Talk

James Bordignon, RSE, Manager, Plumbing Section, City of Surrey
James has been in the plumbing industry for 25 years. In the private sector James has worked his way from greenhorn apprentice to Project Foreman. In 2016 James made the leap and joined the City of Surrey's Plumbing Section where he rose through the ranks. Starting as a Plumbing Official, advancing to Sections Supervisor, to now the Manager of the Plumbing Team in the province. He is a Red Seal Qualified plumber, Class B Gas Fitter, and Level 2 BOABC Plumbing official. In his spare time, James enjoys endurance sports, especially running and cycling.

Bram Hobuti, P.Eng., Permitting & Inspection Manager, City of Kelowna 
Born and raised in Kelowna, BC, Bram Hobuti holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Structural Engineering from UBC and has over 14 years of experience in Civil / Structural consulting engineering. He began his career at Stantec Consulting in 2007, progressing from engineering student to structural design engineer by 2016, before moving into the Structural Discipline Lead role at Ecora Engineering & Resource Group Ltd. A registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) with EGBC, Bram’s experience spans from design of concrete, steel, wood, and masonry structures, to project management, contract administration, people management.

In 2021, he transitioned into local government, joining the City of Kelowna as a Building Official, where he developed strong expertise in the BC Building & Plumbing Codes, local development regulations, and municipal bylaws. He has since advanced to his current role as Permitting & Inspection Manager and takes great pride in supporting the growth of the community he has called home his entire life.

Sponsor

Viega. Connected in Quality

Quality is the driving force behind everything we do. It’s the heart of our company’s identity, and it has been that way for 125 years. Each of our fittings comes with a promise of quality and versatility on the job, no matter the application. Our commitment to quality has helped us achieve our vision of providing safer, faster, and cleaner plumbing technology for use in projects across the globe. Today, we have more than 4,000 employees worldwide and are a global market leader in pipe pressing. We set our own standards, and our products are a testament to that fact. Whatever your next project, choose Viega to get it done.

Interested in leading or sponsoring a #CoffeeTalk event? Contact lbutler@mcabc.org