As of January 4, 2021, building permit applications for new homes must demonstrate compliance with BC Energy Step Code Step 3.
What is the Energy Step Code? The Step Code is a compliance path in the BC Building Code that local governments may use to require a level of energy efficiency in new construction that goes above and beyond the requirements of the BC Building Code.
Why is this important? To meet the targets set in the Climate Leadership Plan, Step Code compliance is required for new construction. After a transition year at Step 1, new construction must now meet either Step 2 or 3 for building permits received after January 1, 2021. The step required is based on the building type and occupancy; for example, wood frame residential construction, 6 storeys or less in height, will be required to meet Step 3.
With funding from BC Hydro, and the support of Central Saanich Council, a rebate of $500 per builder is available for a mid-construction blower door test completed in a new electrically heated home. The best time to evaluate the air-tightness is during construction and can save costs and time associated with air leakage at the final stages – just ask your energy advisor!
There may be additional Provincial Rebates available through the CleanBC program, and from BC Hydro and Fortis BC.
For a summary of what is available, check out: BetterHomesBC.ca for residential: and, BetterBuildingsBC.ca for commercial construction.
