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Energy Code Compliance

Since 1979, new construction and major alterations have been required to comply with the State Energy Code. In July of 2010, New York City initiated its own New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC), applicable to all alterations. For homeowners, this means that when you add an addition to your home or renovate it, you will have to comply with the NYCECC and your home will be more energy-efficient.

Whether you are building a new home, or adding onto or renovating your current home, your architect or engineer may advise you that certain additional requirements must be incorporated into your plans in order to be in compliance with the NYCECC. You can always verify the status of your application and what requirements need to be met before construction begins, by using the Buildings Information System (BIS) search tool.

Complying with the NYCECC

The purpose of the NYCECC to:

  • Make sure buildings are properly sealed by providing a tight and insulated envelope (roof, walls, windows, foundation) to keep heating and cooling inside the building while still providing fresh outside air
  • Illuminate building interiors using efficient lighting and as much daylight as possible to accomplish this; and
  • Heat and cool buildings using as much recycled energy as possible to reduce buildings' power consumption, i.e. using furnaces and air conditioning units that are sized appropriately for the size of your home. 

When creating plans for your home, to comply with the NYCECC your architect and/or engineer must meet certain values for the insulation, windows, heating system, ventilation system, air conditioning, hot water equipment, lighting, and the power system.

To demonstrate compliance with the NYCECC, all New Building and Alteration Type-1, -2, and -3 applications require the following:

  • Professional Statement (mandatory for all)
  • Energy Analysis (mandatory unless the application is exempt)
  • Supporting Documentation (mandator (mandatory unless the application is exempt or compliance is not required – see Energy Analysis)

Learn more.

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