Understanding Upcoming Net-Zero Building Codes Across Canada (2025 Update)

Introduction

As Canada accelerates its path to net-zero emissions, building codes across the country are evolving to promote energy efficiency and net-zero-ready construction.

These updates will affect the design and construction of both new homes and major renovations, influencing everything from insulation requirements to heat pump installations.

This article provides a clear 2025 snapshot of where national and provincial building codes are headed—and how homeowners, builders, and developers can prepare for the shift to smarter, cleaner housing.

What Are Net-Zero Building Codes?

Net-zero building codes aim to ensure that buildings consume as little energy as possible—and generate or offset the rest. Typically, this involves:

• Enhanced insulation and airtight construction
• High-efficiency electric heating and cooling (especially heat pumps)
• Solar-ready design features
• Advanced ventilation systems such as ERVs or HRVs
• Energy modeling and performance testing

These codes are a cornerstone of Canada’s long-term climate strategy.

National Building Code Updates

The National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) is introducing Net-Zero Energy Ready (NZER) tiers between 2025 and 2028.

Provinces will adopt these changes at their own pace.

What to Expect:

• Mandatory energy performance modeling (e.g., HOT2000 or equivalent)
• Phased electrification requirements for space and water heating
• Stronger air-tightness and insulation thresholds
• Solar-ready and EV-ready provisions in select tiers
• National training programs for builders and inspectors
• Optional tiers for early adopters, with incentives possible at the provincial level

Provincial Building Code Changes

🟦 British Columbia

Leading with the BC Energy Step Code, now expanding to include carbon performance metrics.

As of 2024–2025:

• Heat pump readiness is required for most new homes
• Solar-ready roofs and EV-ready wiring becoming mandatory
• CleanBC Better Homes continues to offer rebates for code-compliant upgrades

🟥 Ontario

Phasing in net-zero construction pathways and setting the groundwork for banning fossil-fuel heating in new homes.

Planning code changes that:

• Require electric heating systems (i.e., cold-climate heat pumps)
• Strengthen insulation and envelope performance standards
• Encourage early solar integration in subdivisions

HER+ rebates still support homeowners through Enbridge Gas (Enbridge customers only).

🟪 Quebec

Increasing minimum insulation values in both walls and roofs.

Requiring better energy performance modeling for new builds.

Partnering with Hydro-Québec (LogisVert and Rénoclimat) to offer incentives for:

• Cold-climate heat pumps
• Energy-efficient construction
• Electrification of space and water heating

How Builders and Homeowners Can Prepare

Understand your province’s code roadmap: Check for 2025–2028 adoption timelines and voluntary NZER tiers.

Work with experienced contractors: Look for those trained in Step Code or NZER construction.

Prioritize heat pumps, high-performance windows, and airtightness: These will be minimum requirements soon.

Make your roof solar- and EV-ready during new construction or re-roofing.

Use the Canada Greener Homes Loan: Offers up to $40,000 interest-free for code-aligned upgrades.

Get an energy audit early: A certified EnerGuide assessment helps map your retrofit path and access financing.

Conclusion

Canada’s building codes are shifting from prescriptive checklists to performance-based paths that reward net-zero design.

Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating, these changes mean better comfort, lower emissions, and long-term energy savings.