Stepping Up: BC Energy Step Code and What It Means for Part 9 Builders

In the world of residential construction, staying ahead of the curve isn't just good business—it's mandatory for compliance. This week, we're diving back into a crucial topic that continues to evolve: the BC Energy Step Code and its specific implications for Part 9 buildings (typically single-family homes, duplexes, and low-rise apartments/townhouses).

Step Code Fundamentals for Part 9 The BC Energy Step Code is a performance-based standard. Instead of dictating how you build (e.g., minimum R-values), it dictates how well your building performs in terms of energy efficiency. The requirements are broken down into five "Steps," with Step 1 being a minor improvement over the base BC Building Code and Step 5 being Net-Zero Energy Ready.

Key Metrics You Need to Know: Energy Intensity (TEUI/TEDI): This is about how much energy your building needs.

1. Thermal Energy Demand Intensity (TEDI): Measures the annual heat required to keep the building warm. This is a crucial metric for the building envelope. Lower TEDI means better insulation, window performance, and airtightness.
2. Total Energy Use Intensity (TEUI): Measures the total annual energy used by the building (heating, cooling, lighting, hot water, etc.). This factors in the efficiency of your mechanical systems.
3. Airtightness: Measured in air changes per hour (ACH) at 50 Pascals of pressure. A tighter building is a better-performing building. This is often the most cost-effective way to achieve higher Steps.

Navigating the Current Landscape While the Step Code sets the provincial targets, local governments (municipalities/regional districts) determine which Step is required in their jurisdiction. Therefore, your first step on any new project must be to confirm the required Step with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

General Trends for Part 9 Homes: Many jurisdictions in BC have moved well beyond the minimum requirements. As of the time of this writing, many parts of the province are already requiring Step 4 for Part 9 residential buildings.

Mandatory Blower Door Testing at completion is standard across virtually all participating jurisdictions, and some require a mid-construction test to ensure the air barrier is properly sealed before insulation and drywall go up.

🔑 Takeaway for Builders: Don't rely on old specifications. A Step 3 home requires significantly better performance than a base code home, focusing heavily on a continuous thermal barrier and meticulous air sealing.