In 2019, the OBC announced approximately 140 revisions to the 2012 Building Code. The majority of the revisions go effective on January 1, 2020. The most significant changes include: A complete overhaul of the plumbing regulations to make them more in line with international standards- a need that has been identified for many years by the province's plumbing industry. New requirements for bathrooms. Under the new code, all bathroom floors must be non-slip surfaces. If you're renting, your landlord can choose what type of surface they want to use if it isn't clear from the plans provided by the builder. Changes to how builders should install heating and air conditioning systems in new homes. The previous code allowed for much more freedom when it came to how these systems were installed, which led to some problems when houses were moved or modified in other ways later on. The introduction of mandatory energy efficiency measures for new homes. Starting in 2020, all newly built homes in Ontario will have to meet certain energy efficiency targets or provide proof that they've taken specific measures to increase energy performance. These measures include: double-glazing where applicable, high efficiency water heaters, and energy efficient appliances. The requirement for new homes to be built using environmentally friendly materials.