International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

The IECC addresses building energy efficiency and provides requirements for the energy design and performance of building systems; including, the building envelope, lighting, mechanical systems and water systems.

Many states have started adopting the 2009 IECC, which contains significant changes over the prior version—the 2006 IECC. The just-released 2012 edition, which includes even more aggressive changes and significant administrative differences, is also being vetted for adoption.

If adopted on the local level, these codes will require meaningful changes in the ways apartment buildings are designed and constructed. Depending on the geographic region and the version of the code adopted, they could also add several thousand dollars to the cost of each apartment unit.

NMHC has produced this research report, Impact of the 2009 and 2012 International Energy Conservation Code on Multifamily Buildings, offers a detailed comparison of the 2009 and 2012 IECCs compared to the 2006 edition. It breaks out these costs for a typical low-rise property and a typical high-rise property by climate zone.

It is designed to aid member firms in preparing for upcoming code requirements where the more stringent codes are adopted. It is also designed to be a tool for local apartment advocates to help local jurisdictions understand the real implications adopting these codes will have on housing costs in their localities. NMHC/NAA will be using this research as part of our federal-level advocacy efforts to oppose onerous building energy codes that are not cost-effective or technically feasible.