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ARTICLE · 30 JANUARY 2026

Navigating Canada's Expanding AML Framework In Real Estate And Lending

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
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Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

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Canada's anti-money laundering (AML) regime is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly in the real estate and mortgage sectors.

CanadaFinance and Banking
Jacqueline Shinfield
Jacqueline Shinfield
Greg Umbach
Greg Umbach
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Canada's anti-money laundering (AML) regime is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly in the real estate and mortgage sectors. These reforms span both provincial and federal levels, significantly expanding obligations for mortgage lenders, brokers and administrators. British Columbia's Bill 29 and federal changes to the AML regime bring previously exempt participants into scope and introduce substantial compliance and enforcement measures.

Below is a breakdown of key developments and practical considerations for affected businesses.

  1. Bill 29 Reform. The legislation replaces B.C.'s outdated Mortgage Brokers Act and introduces a modernized regime requiring registration and oversight of anyone providing mortgage services, including private lenders. Bill 29 responds directly to the recommendations of the Cullen Commission, which identified private lending as a key vulnerability in B.C.'s housing market.

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