Course Description

Course overview: 

This in-person session kicks off the 2026 Building Better Series and is built for builders who want a clear, practical outlook on what is changing this year. It focuses on the code updates, policy shifts, and technical requirements that will shape residential construction in 2026.

We will cover changes to Energy and Zero Carbon requirements, updates to the 19% incentive in the City of Vancouver, and system-level updates such as electrical servicing for multiplex projects and seismic requirements.

The goal is to give you an early read on what is coming so you can plan projects, budgets, and teams with more confidence before designs are locked in and permits are submitted.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Understand the key 2026 changes that affect residential builders in and around Vancouver.
  • Explain how the updated 19% square footage exclusion works and how embodied carbon requirements now apply for Net-Zero and Passive House projects in Vancouver.
  • Learn about the latest implementation updates to the Energy Step Code and Zero Carbon Step Code in Lower Mainland municipalities.
  • Recognize new electrical servicing requirements for multiplex projects and how to plan for them early.
  • Understand upcoming seismic requirement changes in the City of Vancouver and their impact.


Thank you to our Sponsors:
Patron Sponsor: BC Housing 



Instructor(s)

Chris Higgins Senior Green Building Planner, City of Vancouver

Elisabeth Baudinaud, Carbon Wise

Principal & Senior Consultant & Building Designer

Nick Petrie Athenaeum Design Inc.