Date of Publication: September 29, 2025 [2022.16.V-02.C]
Subject: Performance Modeling 2024 OBC UPDATE
Summary of Changes: No changes.
2024 Ontario Building Code [O.Reg 163/24 Amended to 5/25] Reference(s):
SB-12 Chapter 3, Subsection 3.1.1.
SB-12 Chapter 3, Article 3.1.2.1
SB-12 Note A-3.1.2.1.
Incoming Request:
Under SB-12 performance modeling, are you able to use any of the packages as the reference model as long as the energy and fuel source are the same as the proposed?
Executive Summary:
Yes, any of the applicable prescriptive compliance packages referenced in Subsection 3.1.1. may be used as the reference house.
Discussion & Considerations:
Sentence 3.1.2.1.(2) indicates that the simulated annual energy use of the proposed building shall not be greater than the simulated annual energy use of the building as if it met the performance level of a permitted compliance package in subsection 3.1.1., with a matching zone location, energy source and equipment efficiency.
It should be noted that sentence 3.1.2.1.(6) states that the proposed building envelope may underperform the reference building envelope by a maximum of 25%.
Appendix note A-3.1.2.1 clarifies further that “it is the intent of Sentence 3.1.2.1.(2) that the performance level of the compliance package takes into account the requirements listed in Subsection 3.1.1. that are applicable to that compliance package”, and that “the proposed building is still required to meet Part 12 and other applicable parts of the code.”
Risk/Benefit Analysis:
This guidance carries minimal risk.
Final Recommendation:
Any of the applicable prescriptive packages in subsection 3.1.1. can be used for a reference house when using the performance compliance method.
Recommendation to Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing:
None at this time.
Referenced Documents:
2024 Ontario Building Code O.Reg 163/24 Amended to 5/25
Disclaimer:
This guidance document is intended to assist building officials by gathering relevant information to interpret the OBC Act and the prescriptive requirements of the Ontario Building Code, and is intended to be a best practice aid for building officials.
The views expressed within this guidance document should not be considered as the official interpretation of legislated requirements based on the Ontario Building Code, as the final responsibility for interpretation rests with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The views of this advisory committee should not be construed as legal advice.