Novoclimat homes are high-performance homes designed to reduce energy consumption, improve comfort, and lower heating and electricity costs. Think of them like the gold standard for home construction in Quebec.
In this article, we look at:
- What exactly are Novoclimat homes?
- Why are Novoclimat homes more energy efficient?
- What are the benefits of a Novoclimat home?
- How Novoclimat homes compare to standard homes in terms of cost?
- How to find Novoclimat homes
What are Novoclimat homes?
Novoclimat homes are energy-efficient, high-performance homes built to a special certification standard in Québec. The program, run by Transition énergétique Québec, sets strict requirements for insulation, airtightness, ventilation, and energy systems, going beyond the regular Québec Construction Code. To be considered a Novoclimat home, a property must receive an official certificate verifying that it meets all program standards.
Novoclimat certification can apply to any type of home for instance, single-family houses, duplexes, townhouses, or condos. What makes the home a Novoclimat home is that it meets key requirements is that the property meets the program’s energy-performance standards.
Why are Novoclimat homes more energy efficient?
Novoclimat home are more efficient compared to standard homes because they use construction methodologies that are purpose-built to reduce heat loss, improve air control, and lower energy consumption. In addition, for a home to be Novoclimat-certified, it must be independently tested for air leaks, ventilation performance and energy efficiency by specialists.
Here are the main construction approaches and practices that go beyond standard construction in Québec:
1. Enhanced Building Envelope Design
Novoclimat houses require higher levels of insulation throughout the building envelope (walls, roof, and foundation) to reduce heat loss more effectively than standard builds. This means using better-performing insulation materials and ensuring continuous coverage to minimize thermal bridging.
2. Targeted Airtightness Standards
One of the core differences is the focus on airtightness, enforced through testing (e.g., blower door tests). The program sets specific airtightness targets that are stricter than typical code requirements, reducing uncontrolled air infiltration and improving energy efficiency and comfort.
3. High-Performance Doors and Windows
Novoclimat requires the use of ENERGY STAR®-level or equivalent high-efficiency doors and windows with better sealing and thermal performance than what’s normally installed in standard homes.
4. Controlled Ventilation With Heat Recovery
Instead of relying on passive or minimal ventilation, Novoclimat homes must be equipped with heat recovery ventilation systems (HRVs) that are properly sized, installed by certified professionals, and meet performance criteria. These systems bring in fresh air while recovering most of the heat from outgoing air.
5. Training, Certification, and Inspections
Novoclimat requires builders, contractors, and ventilation specialists to be certified and trained to follow the program’s technical requirements. Homes are inspected during construction by independent evaluators to ensure compliance with the standards — a step not generally required for standard builds.
6. System-Level Performance Thinking
Rather than treating insulation, mechanical systems, air control, etc., as separate pieces, Novoclimat promotes viewing the house as an integrated system where each part affects overall performance. This results in coordinated design and construction practices that reduce energy waste and improve indoor comfort.
What are the benefits of a Novoclimat home?
Whilst Novoclimat homes are more expensive to purchase, buyers can expect to quickly make a return on their investment. This comes in the form of substantial annual savings on energy costs compared to a house built solely according to the Quebec Construction Code. In addition to the annual cost savings, buyers Novoclimat homes offer the following benefits:
- Thermal comfort in rooms: Novoclimat homes maintain more even temperatures throughout the house, reducing cold spots in winter and overheating in summer. Better insulation and air sealing help rooms stay consistently comfortable, regardless of their location.
- Reduction of drafts and risk of mould: Improved airtightness limits uncontrolled air leaks that cause drafts and condensation. Combined with proper ventilation, this reduces moisture buildup inside walls and living spaces, lowering the risk of mould and long-term building damage.
- Improved air quality: Continuous mechanical ventilation with heat recovery ensures a steady supply of fresh air while removing stale air, excess humidity, and indoor pollutants. This results in healthier indoor air without sacrificing energy efficiency.
- Airtight doors and windows: High-performance doors and windows are designed to minimize air leakage and heat loss. This not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances comfort by eliminating drafts and reducing outside noise.
How Novoclimat homes compare to standard homes in terms of cost?
We compared two two-storey homes (cottages) measuring 28 ft by 30 ft (see image above). One was built using standard construction methods, and the other was built according to the Novoclimat concept. We also took into account the energy-consumption habits of a family of two adults and two children.
| Standard Home | Novoclimat Home | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction cost (additional cost) | |||
| Home price | $394,350 | $400,208 | $5,858 |
| Financial assistance¹ | $0 | −$2,000 | −$2,000 |
| Net additional cost | $3,858 | ||
| Interest costs on financing the additional cost² | $297 | ||
| Annual energy cost (savings) | |||
| Year 1 | $2,771 | $2,230 | −$541 |
| Year 5 | $2,904 | $2,337 | −$567 |
The additional interest cost for this Novoclimat home is $297 per year. But the energy savings amount to $541 starting in the very first year. By year 5 this means that the property owners has saved $2,705 and over a 25 year mortgage the owner saves $13,525. Moreover, if the buyers are first-time homeowners, the financial assistance covers almost the entire additional cost.
For a complete understanding of how the Novoclimat program works and how to buy a Novoclimat registered home, check out our article “Novoclimat Grant Program Quebec – Everything you need to know“.
How to find Novoclimat homes
When you shop for a Novoclimat-certified home, the property listing usually highlights this certification. Sellers know that buyers value the lower energy costs and added comfort these homes provide, which often makes the property more attractive and can increase its market value. For this reason, the listing broker should encourage the seller to clearly include the Novoclimat certification in the Seller’s Declaration.
OACIQ rules require realtors to confirm that a home is truly Novoclimat-certified before advertising it as such. Realtors cannot rely only on what the seller says. Instead, they must ask for the official certificate of approval, including the file number, issued by Transition énergétique Québec when construction is completed. This helps ensure buyers receive clear, accurate, and trustworthy information.
Looking to buy a Novoclimat home?
Are you looking to buy a Novoclimat property in Quebec? The best realtors know how to correctly assess the value of these properties. They are also able to leverage their networks of financial advisors, mortgage experts, and industry connections to make sure that you are able to take advantage of financial incentives. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a specialist realtor. One who truly understands your needs and the market.
In Quebec, there are 17,000+ agents.
At Immovision, we scan the market to find the top-performing, active agents who are the perfect fit for your specific project. Once we identify them, we connect you directly with these agents so you can make confident, informed decisions.
Find your ideal agent today and maximize your home-buying power.
