The BUILT GREEN® Advantage

Some builders have a head start on the new building code changes

As the industry faces incoming building code changes, for the first time energy has been directly addressed — and that means escalating costs to build a home. At the same time, builders will move to a more even playing field with the increased regulations, including green building requirements.

That gives builders engaged in an energy-efficient program a leading edge: a competitive advantage. The BUILT GREEN® program, for example, goes far beyond energy efficiency. 

BUILT GREEN® programs complement the new energy requirement; specifically, the new section of the code (9.36), which deals with energy efficiency. Homebuilders will now have a choice as to how they achieve the requirement—either with a prescriptive path or a performance standard, utilizing the federal EnerGuide program. 

For builders participating in the BUILT GREEN® program, using the performance path, they know how to take those same dollars that would be used on the prescriptive path and get a better result for the home buyer. The energy efficiency in the BUILT GREEN® program is what requires some investment; many of the rest of the program’s measures are cost neutral or even save money. As a result, a builder can spend the same money, be code compliant, and participate in the program. 

Founded in 2003, and brought to Canada in Calgary as a hybrid of several other energy-efficient programs, the organization is now headquartered in Edmonton, but has expanded to B.C., Ontario, and recently, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The national, industry-driven organization is committed to working with builders interested in responsible sustainability practices in the residential building sector. 

The organization offers programs for single family and high density projects, with a renovations program in pilot and a communities program under development. 

Builders have enrolled and completed over 20,500 BUILT GREEN® homes. If multi-family units are included, the total is over 23,500. Together, the organization and its members are leading the way in sustainability performance for residential home construction.

BUILT GREEN® programs offer builders the means to transition into, and implement green technology with ease.

BUILT GREEN® programs offer builders the means to transition into, and implement green technology with ease. Checklists include pre-approved samples, and supporting guides make navigating the program straight forward. The pay-off of gaining a competitive edge, staying ahead of government-imposed regulation, and demonstrating leadership benefits individuals and highlights the industry’s vision through this progressive builder-led initiative. 

For the consumer, purchasing a BUILT GREEN® home offers a healthier, more durable home with a lower environmental impact, lower costs, and the ability to choose which green features they want.

• Homeowners enjoy cost savings in monthly operating costs with water, electricity, and gas bills. A home built in the BUILT GREEN® program should save a minimum of approximately 10 percent in annual utility bills compared to code-built homes. Cumulatively, the savings can be substantial. Better efficiency means long-term savings.
  
• Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Genworth Financial mortgage insurance rebates are available for BUILT GREEN® homes.
• BUILT GREEN®-certified homes offer the benefit of longer-term durability through the efficient use of building materials and processes.
• Consumers who purchase a BUILT GREEN®-certified home should benefit from an increase in market and resale value.