PEI's New Building Codes: What Homeowners Need to Know

As of March 31, 2024, Prince Edward Island has adopted updated building codes that apply to all construction on the Island — and for the first time, that includes single-family and semi-detached homes. If you're planning to build, renovate, or add on, this affects you.

Don't panic. The changes are good news for homeowners in the long run. But there are things you need to know before you start your next project.

What Changed

PEI adopted the 2020 National Building Code with a particular emphasis on energy efficiency. Previously, these standards mainly applied to commercial and multi-unit residential buildings. Now they cover houses too. The key changes include:

• Minimum energy efficiency requirements for all new residential construction
• Mandatory wall insulation levels — higher R-values than what most older PEI homes have
• Mandatory basement insulation — no more uninsulated basement walls in new builds
• Improved accessibility standards — wider doorways and other features that make homes more livable for everyone

The province received $2.4 million in federal funding to support the adoption of these codes, which tells you this is a serious, long-term commitment — not something that's going to be walked back.

What This Means for New Builds

If you're building a new home on PEI, your plans will need to meet the updated energy efficiency standards before you get a building permit. That means higher insulation levels in walls, ceilings, and foundations, better air sealing, and in many cases, more efficient heating systems. Your builder and designer should already be working to these standards, but it's worth asking.

What This Means for Renovations

If you're renovating, the rules depend on the scope of work. A kitchen facelift probably won't trigger code compliance. But if you're opening up walls, adding rooms, or doing a major renovation, you may need to bring the affected areas up to current code. Your building inspector will tell you what applies to your specific project.

The Silver Lining

Here's the thing: these codes exist because poorly insulated, leaky homes are expensive to heat. Maritime winters aren't getting any shorter, and oil and electricity aren't getting any cheaper. A home built to the new code will be more comfortable in January, quieter, and significantly cheaper to heat year over year. The upfront cost is a bit higher, but the payback is real.

We Carry What You Need

We stock the products you need to meet the new code requirements:

• Insulation — batt insulation, rigid foam board, and spray foam kits in the R-values the code requires
• Vapour barriers — 6-mil poly and accessories
• Air sealing products — acoustic sealant, caulking, gaskets, and tapes
• Energy-efficient windows and doors — we can order to your specifications

Our estimating team can sit down with your plans and help you figure out exactly what materials you need and what it'll cost. If you're working with a contractor, send them in — we work with PROs across the Island every day.

The new codes are a step forward for housing on PEI. If you have questions about how they affect your project, come talk to us. We'd rather help you get it right the first time than see you have to redo it later.