Without question there is a…

Without question there is a need for (deeply) affordable housing in Ontario. Consideration for costs at permitting and construction are often the focus however maintenance and operational expenses incurred by the subsequent tenant or owner (“homeowner”) warrant important consideration. Especially in a time when energy costs and alternate sources are changing at a rate not previously experienced.

What appear to be unintended consequences of the proposed bill, specifically the dissolution of green building standards, will result in homeowners facing escalating operational costs.

As originally proposed, the bill would prevent municipalities from addressing energy efficient new builds in the face of climate change. The amendment made in November 2022 was a welcome correction but needs to go further. Clarity around and support for municipalities engaged with or embarking upon green building standards is required.

Building sciences have progressed significantly in recent years. Knowledge of and access to contemporary design and materials needs to be the new “normal”. This requires consideration of green building standards. In addition, we can’t forget that building retrofits are always more costly than incorporating green standards at the time of construction.

Municipalities across Ontario are at different stages with their adoption of green building standards (GBS). This can include stormwater management, energy use, low impact design, greening to counter heat island effect and more. These implements need to be encouraged, not stifled. Cities in Ontario that have already adopted GBS, the ones with the vision and practical approach already in place, they are helping to guide other municipalities in taking the same, very necessary step in the face of climate change.

Furthermore, municipal energy and sustainability standards are well established parts of the planning process that happen concurrently with other review and approvals. The process has never been known to delay development nor, to my knowledge, has there ever never been a building permit or occupancy permit denied based on municipal energy requirements.

I’m confident there is a way to preserve green development standards implemented at the municipal level, while allowing the bill to streamline development processes, and keep important development work already under way on track.

Coupling green standards with an updated and progressive Ontario Building Code will be a win-win for the people of Ontario, contributing to affordable, healthy and sustainable homes.