In response to the B.C. Governments initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, new changes to the B.C. Building Code have come into effect. As of September 5, 2012, all new construction and renovations within the province will have to conform to new standards in energy efficiency.

Changes in the Building Code include:
1)   Energy efficiency requirements for single family, multi-family, commercial and industrial buildings;
2)   Water efficiency requirements in all buildings;
3)   Energy efficiency requirements for high-rise and larger residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

These changes are only the first steps and additional requirements will be phased-in throughout the coming years. Areas where you may see change in the future include greywater recycling, the use of lighting sensors to turn on and off fixtures, as well as the increased use of recycled buildings and materials.

View a summary of the changes to the Provincial Energy Efficiency Requirements.

Additional information on the changes to the B.C. Building Code can be viewed on-line at the following locations:

• Homeowner Protection Office (HPO)
• Ministry's Building and Safety Standards Branch