You Don’t Know It, but You’re on the Hook for What’s Buried on Your Land Many Canadians support heritage preservation but are unwilling to bear the significant financial burden for it on their own property. A recent survey indicates strong public consensus on the importance of preserving heritage sites and historic buildings. However, this agreement falters when the responsibility of payment is considered, especially when governments impose costs on individual landowners.

• Canadians value heritage and historical sites.
• Homeowners face the risk of unexpected bills for heritage preservation on their property.
• A 2023 survey showed 90% of Canadians consider heritage preservation very or somewhat important.
• Public support for preservation is widespread across demographics and regions.
• Consensus on preservation weakens when the cost and who pays is discussed.
• The issue becomes contentious when governments place financial burdens on individual property owners.