BC ENERGY STEP CODE
Let’s Make Building Better, Together.
British Columbia is transforming how we build. The BC Energy Step Code is reshaping new
construction to be more efficient, sustainable, and future-ready with a clear goal:
Net-Zero Energy-Ready buildings by 2032.
Net-Zero Energy-Ready buildings by 2032.
At Total Home Solutions Inc, we help builders, designers, and developers confidently meet
and exceed these new standards through expert energy modelling, airtightness testing, and
compliance guidance.
What Is the BC Energy Step Code?
The BC Energy Step Code is a performance-based standard that goes beyond minimum BC
Building Code requirements.
Instead of telling you how to build, it sets measurable energy-efficiency targets, giving you the
freedom to innovate with your materials, systems, and design. Municipalities may also adopt
higher steps through local bylaws or incentive programs.
As of May 1, 2023, most new buildings in BC must achieve about 20% greater energy efficiency than before:
- Part 9 homes (single-family, duplexes, townhomes): Step 3
- Part 3 buildings (multi-unit, commercial): Step 2
Why It Matters to Builders & Developers
1. Stay Ahead of Regulation
Municipalities across BC (like Vancouver, Kelowna, and Nanaimo) are already adopting higher Steps — often with incentives or requirements attached.
Municipalities across BC (like Vancouver, Kelowna, and Nanaimo) are already adopting higher Steps — often with incentives or requirements attached.
2. Sell a Stronger Story
Homebuyers and investors are demanding sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Being Step Code Ready gives your projects credibility, comfort, and long-term value.
Homebuyers and investors are demanding sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Being Step Code Ready gives your projects credibility, comfort, and long-term value.
3. Future-Proof Your Investment
By designing to higher Steps now, you reduce retrofit risks, lower energy bills, and increase resale value.
By designing to higher Steps now, you reduce retrofit risks, lower energy bills, and increase resale value.
4. Unlock Rebates & Incentives
Programs like CleanBC Better Homes, CMHC, and FortisBC offer financial incentives for projects achieving higher energy performance.
Programs like CleanBC Better Homes, CMHC, and FortisBC offer financial incentives for projects achieving higher energy performance.
Where Are We Now?
| Building Type | Current Minimum Provincial Standard | Leadership Target |
| Part 9 Homes | ≈ Step 3 (20% better than base code) | Step 4–5 (Net-Zero Ready) |
| Part 3 Buildings | ≈ Step 2 (Intermediate Performance) | Step 3+ (Low or Zero Carbon) |
By 2032: All new buildings in BC will be Net-Zero Energy-Ready.
How Total Home Solutions Supports You
As your energy efficiency partner, we have you covered from project conception to occupancy. We work with you throughout the building process to help you achieve your energy efficiency goals.
Our Services:
- Energy Modelling to inform design decisions and avoid costly re-designs.
- Provide Expert Guidance for Step Code Compliance
- Blower Door Testing & Airtightness Strategy
- Mechanical System Optimization & F-280 Calculations
- Municipal Permit Support & Rebate Coordination
With Total Home Solutions, Inc. you don’t just meet code, you build smarter, market better, and
future-proof your projects.
Get Step Code Ready
Whether you’re building your first Step Code project or aiming to achieve the highest performance level, Total Home Solutions helps you get there with confidence. We simplify the process, guide you through compliance, and help you maximize available incentives, giving your projects a competitive edge in today’s evolving construction market.
