Net-Zero Building Codes in Canada: Understanding the 2025 Changes

Net-zero building codes are reshaping how Canada approaches energy efficiency and sustainable construction. As the country accelerates its path to net-zero emissions, these evolving codes set higher standards for new homes and major renovations, impacting 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 Net-Zero Building Codes 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 Net-Zero Building Codes 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 for Net-Zero Building Codes

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 Net-Zero Building Codes are transitioning from prescriptive checklists to performance-based pathways that reward efficient and sustainable design. Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating, these changes mean greater comfort, lower emissions, and long-term energy savings for homeowners and communities alike.