Step Code 4

Energy-Efficient
Townhomes

Built to BC Energy Step Code 4 in Langley

Overview

BC Energy Step Code 4 isn't a marketing label – it's a measurable performance target verified by an airtightness test and energy modelling. Every Addition home is built to it, paired with a heat pump that delivers both winter heating and summer AC.

What is Step Code 4?

Step Code is BC's performance-based residential efficiency standard, incorporated into the BC Building Code. The scale runs from Step 1 (code minimum) to Step 5 (net-zero energy ready). Step 4 represents a substantial improvement in modelled energy use and airtightness over a code-minimum build.

Why energy performance matters

Energy performance directly affects three things buyers feel every day – comfort, utility bills, and long-term operating cost. A high-performance envelope is the foundation that makes the heat pump, AC and ventilation work as designed.

Comfort benefits

Steadier room temperatures, fewer cold corners in winter, less upstairs overheating in summer, and quieter interiors thanks to improved insulation and windows.

Efficiency benefits

The tighter the envelope, the less the heat pump runs to maintain temperature. Less runtime = lower monthly bills and longer equipment life.

How Step Code 4 works with AC and heat pump comfort

An efficient envelope makes AC effective without massive overshoot. The heat pump cools efficiently in summer and heats efficiently in winter – one system, year-round comfort.

Why this matters in a new townhome purchase

Energy performance is built into the structure. You can upgrade flooring later; you can't easily upgrade the envelope. Buying Step Code 4 means buying the right foundation from day one.

Long-term value and buyer confidence

Building codes are tightening. Step Code 4 homes are ahead of where the standard is heading. Eligible buyers of newly built energy-efficient homes may also qualify for the CMHC Eco Plus 25% premium refund – confirm details with CMHC and your lender.

Frequently Asked

Good to know.

What does Step Code 4 mean?

BC Energy Step Code 4 is one of the higher tiers of British Columbia's performance-based residential energy standard, now incorporated into the BC Building Code. It's verified through energy modelling and an on-site airtightness test – not just a label.

Are Addition townhomes energy efficient?

Yes. Every Addition home in Langley is built to Step Code 4, with a high-performance envelope, an electric heat pump for both heating and AC, and controlled mechanical ventilation.

Why does Step Code 4 matter?

It directly affects comfort, monthly bills, and long-term value. A tighter envelope means the home holds temperature longer, the heat pump runs less, and outside noise stays outside.

Does energy efficiency improve comfort?

Yes. Step Code 4 homes have fewer cold corners in winter, less overheating upstairs in summer, and steadier room-to-room temperatures. Mechanical ventilation also delivers continuous fresh air.

How does Step Code 4 support long-term value?

Building codes will only get stricter. Buying a Step Code 4 home today means owning ahead of the curve and reducing operating cost for the life of the home. Eligible buyers may also qualify for CMHC Eco Plus premium savings.

How does a heat pump support comfort?

A heat pump moves heat instead of generating it – providing both efficient winter heating and summer AC from one system. Combined with a Step Code 4 envelope, it delivers consistent comfort with lower operating cost than baseboard or gas-furnace equivalents.