After more than a year of development, Maine is implementing major updates to its statewide building codes, aimed at improving safety, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Starting Monday, the new standards—part of the updated Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC)—officially take effect in towns with populations over 4,000.

These updated codes, stemming from legislation passed in 2019, apply to both new construction and renovations for residential and commercial properties. State officials are emphasizing the importance of awareness and training as the changes roll out.

"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. "We are committed to making the transition as seamless as possible by providing essential training and tools in partnership with other state agencies to help builders learn and implement the new codes."

The Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office is collaborating with Governor Janet Mills’ administration to inform homeowners, contractors, and code enforcement officers about the updates. Training sessions are being offered to help ease the transition and ensure proper implementation across the industry.

Key changes include increased insulation requirements in floors and walls, new ventilation standards, and additional options for meeting energy efficiency benchmarks. According to state officials, the new rules are expected to lead to utility bill savings of approximately $978 per household in the first year alone.

Indoor air quality is also getting a boost, thanks to stricter ventilation and radon mitigation standards designed to make homes healthier and more resilient.

"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, Executive Director of the Efficiency Maine Trust. "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."

In addition to energy-related improvements, the updated codes introduce stronger structural requirements intended to help buildings withstand extreme weather and reduce long-term damage—an especially timely measure as climate resilience becomes a growing priority across the region.

Originally reported by Francis Flisiuk in WMTW.