New building codes taking effect in Maine on Monday are intended to improve health and safety while also cutting energy costs, according to state officials.
The updated codes apply to new construction as well as renovations of homes and commercial buildings. The updates were required under a bill passed in 2019.
Municipalities with more than 4,000 residents are required to enforce the new codes, while those with fewer residents may choose whether or not to do so.
The most significant changes in the updated code include requirements for more insulation in floors and walls, along with additional options to meet energy efficiency standards.
“I’m glad to see the new codes taking effect, bringing with them lower heating and cooling bills for the building owners and tenants,” said Michael Stoddard, Efficiency Maine Trust executive director, in a statement from the Maine Fire Marshal’s Office. “We expect these new buildings to be around for more than 100 years, so it’s important they are built to perform well today and for future generations of occupants.”
According to the statement, the benefits of the updated codes include:
Energy efficiency: Improved standards will lower heating and cooling costs and promote clean energy. Annual utility bill savings are estimated at $978 per household in the first year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. For most of Maine, the savings from energy efficiency investments will pay off in under five years.
Healthier indoor air quality: Better ventilation and radon protection measures will improve indoor environments.
Consistency: A uniform statewide code provides clarity for builders, contractors and homeowners.
Safer buildings: Updated structural guidelines will help protect homes and businesses from natural disasters and long-term wear.
“The updated codes will improve Maine’s building stock to be more safe, comfortable, and efficient, reducing our energy consumption and delivering significant cost savings,” said Dan Burgess, director of the Governor’s Energy Office.
As of April 7, the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code is updating from the 2015 codes to the 2021 version for residential construction and to the 2019 version for commercial construction.
By law, Maine is required to stay no more than two editions behind current national code standards. The MUBEC board voted to adopt the updates in 2024.
Municipalities may also adopt an optional “stretch code” that sets higher energy efficiency standards.
