Record keeping is a very important part of operating a successful business. Pursuant to the Business Corporations Act of British Columbia, a business which has been incorporated is legally obligated to keep certain records at their records office and make such records available to certain members of the company and/or public.

It is prudent for a company to create a “records book” (sometimes called a “minute book”) at the time of incorporation. The company’s records must be kept at the company’s records office which must be registered with the Corporate Registrar of British Columbia. The records book should include, among other things:

1. Certificate of incorporation*
2. Notice of articles
3. Articles
4. Central securities register (shareholder information)*
5. Register of directors*
6. A copy of each consent to act as a director received by the company*
7. A copy of certain written resignations*
8. Minutes from each meeting of the shareholders or directors*
9. Resolutions signed by the shareholders or directors
10. Annual reports
11. Shareholders’ agreement (if any)
12. Financial statements
13. Share certificates
14. Other agreements entered into by the company

*Required by law

A records book enables a company to stay organized and ensure compliance with their reporting obligations under the Business Corporations Act of British Columbia. Although it is preferable to set up a records book at the time of incorporation, it is never too late to have one put together!

If you have any questions with respect to the reporting obligations of your company or if you would like us to put together your records book or review your existing records book, please reach out to one of our lawyers practicing in the area of corporate law.

Author: Danielle (Dani) Brito

This information is general in nature only. You should consult a lawyer before acting on any of this information. This information should not be considered as legal advice. To learn more about your legal needs, please contact our office at (250)448-2637 or any of our lawyers practicing in the area of business law at the following: