Question 1

What types of businesses are ideal for Trade Yards?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards is built for trades professionals and small business operators. Contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, landscapers, mechanics, painters, renovation specialists, and delivery companies all find Trade Yards to be the perfect fit. If you have outgrown your garage, are tired of scattered storage units, or need a professional base of operations, Trade Yards was designed with you in mind.

Question 2

What makes Trade Yards different from traditional industrial space?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards is purpose-built for small business operators. Unlike traditional industrial leases that come with triple net (NNN) costs, long-term commitments, and hidden operating expenses, Trade Yards offers simple, transparent pricing with no surprises. Our no-limitations industrial zoning means you do not need to worry about separate local permits for common industrial uses. Flexible terms, 24/7 access, and a community of like-minded trades professionals set us apart from anything else on Vancouver Island.

Question 3

When does Trade Yards open?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards is scheduled for its Grand Opening on April 1, 2026. Founding Member reservations are being accepted now. Early applicants receive priority unit selection and locked-in rates for 5 years.

Question 4

Who owns and operates Trade Yards?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards is a locally owned and operated facility, designed by trades professionals who understand the daily challenges of running a small business on Vancouver Island. We live and work in this community, and we built Trade Yards to solve the workspace problems we experienced firsthand.

Question 5

What sizes are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer four Polar Dome sizes to fit different operations: 30'x60' (1,800 sq ft) for solo contractors and small operations, 35'x60' (2,100 sq ft) for growing businesses, 40'x55' (2,200 sq ft) for mid-size contractors, and 40'x70' (2,800 sq ft) for established businesses with larger equipment and fleets. Each unit includes a 12'x12' roll-up garage door, a steel man door, and high ceilings with a 21' peak height.

Question 6

What is a Polar Dome structure?

Accepted Answer

Polar Dome structures are engineered, fabric-covered steel-frame buildings with a dual truss system, designed for durability in Canadian weather conditions. They feature natural light diffusion and are built to handle heavy snow loads and high winds. The high-ceiling arch design with 21-foot peak heights gives you maximum usable interior space compared to traditional rectangular buildings.

Question 7

Can I customize my unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While each unit comes standard with a roll-up garage door and man door, you are welcome to set up your interior workspace to suit your business needs. Shelving, workbenches, tool storage, vehicle lifts, and other equipment can be installed. Our team can discuss specific requirements during the reservation process.

Question 8

Is there power and lighting in each unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each unit comes equipped with electrical service and overhead lighting. Specific electrical capacity details are available during the reservation process, and we can discuss any special power requirements your business may have.

Question 9

What security features are included?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards features 24/7 HD video surveillance covering all common areas and access points, perimeter fencing with barbed wire, gated access with keypad entry, motion-sensor lighting throughout the facility, and regular on-site security patrols. Each unit also comes fully equipped with a Bontainer insulated steel storage unit or steel shipping container, adding a valuable extra level of security for your equipment—or it can be used as an office, staff area, or lounge. Your tools, equipment, and vehicles are protected around the clock.

Question 10

Can I access my unit 24/7?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. All Trade Yards members have unrestricted 24/7 access to their units via secure keypad entry. Whether you need to grab tools at 5 AM, work late finishing a project, or load up on a weekend, your workspace is always available when you need it.

Question 11

Is there vehicle parking on site?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every unit at Trade Yards comes with 2 dedicated parking spaces included in your lease. If your operation needs more, additional reserved parking spots are available as an add-on. The facility is designed with wide drive lanes to accommodate larger vehicles, work trucks, trailers, and equipment transport.

Question 12

How much does a unit cost?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards uses a simple, transparent pricing model. Rates vary by unit size, and exact pricing is available when you contact our team or submit a reservation request. What sets us apart is that our pricing includes everything. There are no triple net (NNN) surprises, no hidden operating costs, and no unexpected charges for taxes, maintenance, or insurance that are common with traditional industrial leases.

Question 13

What are the lease terms?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards offers flexible lease terms designed for small business operators. We understand that long-term commitments can be a barrier, especially for growing businesses. Our team will work with you to find a term that fits your situation. Contact us to discuss the options available.

Question 14

Are there any hidden fees or additional costs?

Accepted Answer

No. One of the core principles of Trade Yards is transparent pricing. Unlike traditional industrial leases where you might face triple net charges (property taxes, building insurance, and maintenance costs on top of rent), Trade Yards keeps it straightforward. The rate you are quoted is the rate you pay.

Question 15

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Accepted Answer

A standard security deposit is required to secure your unit. Details about deposit amounts and payment terms are provided during the reservation process. Founding Members may have access to special deposit arrangements.

Question 16

What is included in the Founding Member Program?

Accepted Answer

Founding Members get locked-in rates for 5 years, meaning your monthly rate will not increase during that period. You also get priority unit selection, exclusive community events, branded Trade Yards gear, and recognition on our Founders Wall. It is our way of thanking the early supporters who believe in the Trade Yards vision and help build this community from the ground up.

Question 17

How do I become a Founding Member?

Accepted Answer

Submit a reservation request through our website or contact our team directly. Founding Member spots are limited and are being filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The sooner you apply, the better your selection of available units.

Question 18

How long are rates locked in for Founding Members?

Accepted Answer

As a Founding Member, the rate you lock in at the start of your lease is the rate you will pay for 5 years. This is our commitment to the people who helped build this community from day one.

Question 19

Where is Trade Yards located?

Accepted Answer

Trade Yards is located at 7549 West Saanich Road in Brentwood Bay, BC. The location is conveniently situated for trades professionals serving Victoria, Sidney, Saanich, North Saanich, Central Saanich, and the entire Saanich Peninsula. Easy access to major routes means you can reach your job sites quickly without fighting through downtown traffic.

Question 20

What is the surrounding area like?

Accepted Answer

Brentwood Bay is a well-established community on the Saanich Peninsula. The area offers easy access to highways connecting to Greater Victoria, Sidney, and the BC Ferries terminal. Local amenities including restaurants, hardware stores, and fuel stations are all nearby.

Question 21

Is there a community aspect to Trade Yards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Trade Yards is more than just workspace. We are building a community of trades professionals who can network, share referrals, and support each other. Founding Members get access to exclusive community events, and the shared environment naturally creates opportunities to connect with other local business owners in complementary trades.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT TRADE YARDS

UNITS & SIZES

SECURITY & ACCESS

PRICING & LEASING

FOUNDING MEMBER PROGRAM

LOCATION & COMMUNITY

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Types of Industrial Space Available

How to Lease Industrial Property

Factors to Consider Before Signing a Lease

Common Mistakes When Leasing Industrial Space

Flexible and Short-Term Industrial Space

Costs and Budgeting for Industrial Space

Industrial Space Market in Victoria, BC

Why Small Businesses Choose Industrial Space

Zoning and Legal Restrictions

Working with Brokers and Tenant Reps

READY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE?

Business / Billing Address