 SHANNON BRENNAN (NEWS1130) – The energy efficiency building codes announced by the Minister for Housing Rich Coleman include insulation performance, heating and cooling systems, hot water tanks, and the performance of doors, windows and skylights.
Bob de Wit with the Greater Vancouver Home Builder’s Associationsays the updates represent a step forward technology-wise with new home construction, but warns it does come with a cost. “So we expect that new homes in the Greater Vancouver area will be anywhere from five to 10 thousand dollars more to construct depending on where you are and how the code is interpreted by the city you are in,” he explains. “This update to the building code affects single family homes more so than multi-family so it won’t affect condos as much as it will single family homes and duplexes.” He says it will also impact renovations to existing homes, adding it’s important to hire a professional who understands the ins and outs of complex buildings codes. Other updates to the BC building code include ventilation to improve air flow in homes and reduce mould as well as the allowance of child-care facilities in small wood-frame buildings that meet fire safety requirements. Comments are closed.
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