BC Energy Step Code 3
Key takeaway: Step 3 is the current provincial minimum. Target: 2.5 ACH50. Achievable with careful manual air sealing and standard high-performance building practices. Cost premium: 1% to 3%.
Airtightness Requirements
Target: 2.5 ACH@50Pa. Verified by blower door test. Achievable for most builders with attention to the air barrier system. Common failure points: unsealed penetrations, gaps at window rough openings, and incomplete air barrier continuity at wall-ceiling transitions.
For targets at every step, see our ACH targets guide.
What Builders Do Differently
- Mandatory blower door testing. Air barrier must be continuous and verifiable.
- Energy modelling at design stage. Engage an energy advisor early.
- Better windows. Double-pane low-E with U-value ~1.4 W/m2K or better.
- Attention to air sealing. Caulking, taping, and sealing at penetrations becomes critical.
Cost
The incremental cost is modest: 1% to 3% of construction costs. Most comes from energy modelling, blower door testing, and air sealing labour. FortisBC rebates offset a significant portion.
Looking Ahead
Step 4 is expected in 2027. The airtightness target drops to 1.5 ACH50. Builders developing good air sealing practices at Step 3 will have a smoother transition. See our cost breakdown for what changes financially.