Quebec has extended the transition period for compliance with its currently adopted editions of the construction and electrical codes. That gives developers of multifamily buildings with more than four units and/or rental landlords and condominium corporations undertaking major renovations an extra year before they’ll be compelled to ensure adequate electrical capacity and infrastructure to accommodate electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment in their parking spaces.

Under a new regulation, published in late August and in effect as of Sept. 10, project proponents can continue to adhere to older rules if they commence work before Oct. 17, 2027. That said, they would still have to comply with any applicable municipal bylaws, such as those dictating requirements for EV charging, despite this reprieve in the provincial codes.

The Quebec government formally updated the construction code to largely align with requirements in the 2020 model national construction code last year, with a transition period that was initially scheduled to end Oct. 17, 2026. The updated electrical code, reflective of the 2021 model national electrical code, was adopted earlier this year with a transition period initially set to expire Sept. 26, 2026.