New BC Building Code (BCBC) 2024 provisions for adaptable dwellings and seismic design came into effect on Monday, March 10, 2025, with adaptable-dwelling requirements being gradually implemented. The adaptable-dwelling requirements will now be introduced in a phased approach, starting at 20% of units in large residential buildings, as opposed to the previously proposed 100%.
Specifically, the amendment revises the application of the adaptable dwelling unit provisions to one of every five dwelling units in large apartment buildings and one of every five dwelling units on the first floor of small apartment buildings. Protection for in-stream projects remains in place until March 8, 2027.
An outline of all of the amendments can be found in the Information Bulletin.
Illustrative Design Guide Now Available
The Province has published the 2024 BC Building Code Adaptable Dwelling Unit Illustrative Design Guide, which provides design solutions to support implementation.
This guide is intended to be a complementary resource to the Space and Cost Impact Report Study.
On-Demand Version of AIBC’s BC Building Code – Adaptable Dwelling Units Course
The AIBC is currently developing the on-demand version of the BC Building Code – Adaptable Dwelling Units Course, which was hosted by the Institute in September 2024. Please note that there may be some delays in the publication of the online course as updates are made to the material to reflect the recent changes. Registrants and the public will be notified once the course is available via the website.
If you have any questions about the course, please reach out to professionaldevelopment@aibc.ca.