What is the current BC Step Code minimum?

As of 2025, Step 3 is the provincial minimum for Part 9 residential buildings, requiring airtightness of 2.5 ACH@50Pa or better.

When does Step 4 become mandatory?

Step 4 is expected to become the provincial minimum in 2027, requiring airtightness of 1.5 ACH@50Pa.

What FortisBC rebates are available for Step Code?

FortisBC offers rebates up to $15,000 per dwelling unit for Step 4 and up to $20,000 for Step 5 through the hybrid heat pump pathway under the New Home Program.

// BC Energy Step Code

Step Code 4 is coming.

1.5 ACH or bust.

The practical resource for BC builders navigating Energy Step Code compliance. ACH targets, air sealing methods, FortisBC rebates, and municipality-specific guides.

Step Code 4 Guide Rebate Calculator

≤1.5

ACH

Step 4 Target

<1.0

ACH

Envelope Goal

$15K+

FortisBC Rebate

2027

Step 4 Expected

The BC Energy Step Code, explained for builders

The BC Energy Step Code is the performance path in the 2024 BC Building Code that sets how airtight and energy-efficient a new building must be. For Part 9 residential construction, Step 3 (2.5 ACH50) is the current provincial minimum, with Step 4 (1.5 ACH50) expected to become mandatory in 2027 and Step 5 (1.0 ACH50) as the net-zero-ready tier. This guide breaks down the ACH50 targets, air sealing methods, FortisBC rebates, and requirements by municipality that builders need to comply and capture incentives.

// Compare Step Levels

Current Mandatory