Checklist for New Code Compliance in 2025

Philadelphia's 2025 building code updates are now in effect, setting stricter requirements for energy efficiency, safety, and accessibility in new construction and renovations. Compliance is mandatory, with non-adherence leading to fines, project delays, or permit denials.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Energy Efficiency: Advanced insulation, high-performance windows, and stricter HVAC standards are required. Blower door tests and energy calculations must meet updated benchmarks.

• Safety: Enhanced fire safety measures, including verified alarms and sprinklers, are mandatory. Structural documentation must address seismic and load-bearing requirements.

• Accessibility: Updated ADA standards require accessible units, parking spaces, and Braille signage in shared areas.

• Documentation: Complete and accurate submissions are essential for approval. Missing documents can delay permits or occupancy certificates.

• Local Amendments: Philadelphia-specific rules may add requirements based on zoning, climate, or historic preservation.

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Early planning, expert consultation, and collaboration with local authorities are key to meeting these standards and avoiding costly errors. The deadline for full compliance is July 13, 2025 for most projects.

Philadelphia Board of License and Inspection Hearing (5/6/2025)

Major Changes in the 2025 Philadelphia Building Code

The 2025 Philadelphia Building Code brings a wave of updates that impact how buildings are designed, constructed, and inspected. These revisions incorporate the latest standards from the International Code Council (ICC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), addressing structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and overall life safety. These changes aim to provide a clear framework for every stage of a construction project.

Energy Efficiency Standards

Energy efficiency is a key focus in the 2025 updates. One major requirement is that project plans must now include mandatory energy calculations to prove compliance with conservation standards. These calculations often reference advanced models like California's Title 24 and align with the latest International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) guidelines. The updates highlight eight specific residential compliance items that directly influence energy usage.

The code introduces stricter - but flexible - building envelope requirements. Insulation standards for ceilings, roofs, walls, floors, and foundations can now be adjusted through trade-offs, depending on the compliance path chosen under the 2012, 2015, and 2018 IECC standards. This allows developers to meet performance benchmarks while accommodating design flexibility.

Energy compliance is now measured using performance metrics like air changes per hour (ACH) at 50 Pa, duct tightness in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet at 25 Pa, and U-Factor and SHGC ratings for windows.

Additionally, water fixtures and appliances must adhere to EPA and Energy Star standards. Electric water heaters are required to meet a Uniform Energy Factor of at least 0.93 or an Energy Factor of at least 0.95.

Safety and Accessibility Updates

The 2025 code also raises the bar for safety and accessibility. Fire safety measures now require a fire department review letter for sprinkler and alarm systems, along with mandatory verification of fire exits, alarms, sprinklers, and other suppression systems.

Accessibility standards are now fully aligned with the current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. Projects must include Type A and B accessible units, with specific requirements for accessible parking spaces. All signage in apartments and shared areas must feature raised characters and Braille to ensure inclusivity for visually impaired individuals.

Structural updates include detailed documentation on load-bearing capacities, material quality, and compliance with seismic regulations. For residential spaces, safety measures include the use of mold- and water-resistant drywall in bathrooms, laundry rooms, mechanical closets, and exterior storage areas.

The code also provides stricter specifications for doors and hardware. Primary unit entry doors must have lever handles on the exterior, and all exterior doors must include single-lever deadbolts. Interior hallways in residential units must be at least 42 inches wide, while interior doors must have three hinges. Certain door types, such as bi-fold, bypass, hollow core, pocket, and louvered doors, are no longer permitted. To improve ventilation, a 3/4-inch air space is required under interior doors, along with 4-inch by 8-inch transfer grilles above doors in designated rooms.

Local Amendments and Enforcement

Philadelphia has integrated local amendments to reflect environmental conditions, zoning requirements, and community needs. To streamline enforcement, the 2025 code mandates that complete documentation packages must be submitted before construction begins. Projects meeting all requirements may receive first-pass approval.

The city’s building department oversees compliance with both state and local codes, requiring zoning compliance documentation. Depending on the project, this could involve simple permits or more complex approvals like variances or conditional use permits.

Utility connection standards have also tightened. Developers must secure formal approvals from utility providers for electricity, water, sewer, and natural gas connections, ensuring that the existing infrastructure can handle the project’s demands. For residential projects, clothes washer and dryer connection boxes must now be installed directly behind appliances.

Non-compliance carries serious consequences. Incomplete or incorrect submissions lead to rejections and delays, as building departments cannot confirm critical aspects like structural safety, life safety features, or energy efficiency without proper documentation. Thorough preparation and expert consultation are now more important than ever for securing project approval.

Pre-Construction Compliance Checklist

Preparing for the 2025 code updates involves careful planning well before construction begins. This phase is critical for ensuring smooth approvals and avoiding costly delays. Here's how to get started.

Project Evaluation and Applicability

Identify which codes apply to your project. Check official adoption schedules to confirm the relevant requirements and avoid expensive redesigns if new provisions come into play.

Your project's occupancy classification and use group will dictate specific requirements. For instance, commercial buildings often have stricter energy efficiency and fire safety standards compared to residential properties. Mixed-use developments, on the other hand, must comply with multiple code sections. For example, a new office building might need a different ventilation system than an apartment complex of the same size.

Gather key documentation early. This includes property surveys, reports on existing structures (for renovations), and preliminary design drawings. Site-specific factors like floodplain status, wind zones, seismic activity, or historical overlays may introduce additional requirements.

To stay organized, create a compliance matrix that matches each code requirement with your design response. This approach not only keeps you on track but also makes the review process faster and shows building officials that you've done your homework.

Once you've evaluated your project and collected the necessary documentation, it's time to assemble a team of experts to guide you through the technical requirements.

Building Your Compliance Team

Bring in your team of professionals before finalizing designs. This group usually includes a licensed architect, structural engineer, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) engineers, and a code consultant. If your project has energy efficiency goals, consider adding an energy consultant to address the updated standards.

Early collaboration is key. For example, new fire-rated vent requirements and stricter accessibility standards need to be integrated into the design from the beginning to avoid expensive changes later.

Code consultants are especially helpful for navigating complex or overlapping codes. Their expertise can identify potential risks early and ensure your documentation is complete and accurate, which can streamline the permitting process.

The complexity of your project will determine the size and scope of your team. A simple residential project may require fewer specialists, while a mixed-use development with retail, office, and residential spaces will need a larger team. Regardless of the project type, early expert advice often saves money by preventing costly mid-construction changes.

Once your team is in place, it's time to engage with local authorities to address any potential challenges.

Working with Local Authorities

Set up a pre-application meeting with the Department of Licenses and Inspections. Bring your preliminary designs and any questions about code interpretations or local amendments. This proactive step can help resolve issues before they lead to delays.

Philadelphia, for example, has adopted amendments to national model codes - such as stricter energy standards and enhanced stormwater management rules - that might not be immediately clear from the base codes. Speaking with city officials early can clarify how these local changes affect your project.

Get written confirmation of all code interpretations. This ensures clarity and provides a record for future reference. If officials approve alternative compliance methods or clarify ambiguous requirements, having their decisions in writing can safeguard your timeline.

For commercial projects in Greater Philadelphia, firms like Blueprint Commercial can simplify these interactions. Their strong relationships with local authorities and in-depth knowledge of regional requirements are particularly valuable for handling complex commercial and mixed-use developments.

Construction Phase Compliance Checklist

The 2025 building code requirements place a strong emphasis on the performance of the building envelope, mechanical systems, and electrical installations. Each phase demands thorough documentation and testing to meet compliance standards.

Building Envelope Requirements

Continuous insulation is now a requirement for all building types. This insulation must be installed without interruption across structural elements like studs, joists, and concrete connections to prevent thermal bridging, which can lead to unwanted heat transfer. Be sure to document manufacturer specifications, installation records, and thermal performance certifications to stay compliant.

Air leakage testing has also become stricter. Blower door tests are now mandatory for most commercial buildings, and structures must meet specific air leakage ratings. In cities like Philadelphia, sector-wide air-leakage verification programs are collecting these test results before issuing certificates of occupancy. Plan to conduct your blower door test once the building envelope is nearly complete - before adding final finishes - and include certified test results from qualified professionals in your compliance documentation.

Additionally, the use of fire-rated materials and advanced insulation not only minimizes energy loss but also enhances fire safety. Be sure that all fire-rated assemblies match the approved plans precisely, as any substitutions may require additional approvals. With the envelope addressed, attention turns to mechanical systems.

Mechanical Systems and Ventilation

HVAC efficiency standards have been updated significantly. The International Code Council aims for 90% of all HVAC systems in new construction to be properly sized by 2025, following ACCA Manual J/S or ASHRAE 183 standards. Contractors must ensure selected units meet these efficiency benchmarks and retain all relevant equipment specification sheets.

Ventilation systems must comply with ASHRAE 62.1 standards, and automatic dampers are required to contain smoke during high temperatures. Duct sealing and testing are also mandatory under all compliance paths. Schedule duct pressure testing before commissioning the system, and promptly address any issues identified during inspections. Close coordination with your mechanical engineer and detailed documentation of all testing and commissioning activities are critical for meeting compliance requirements. With mechanical systems in place, the focus shifts to electrical and lighting updates.

Electrical and Lighting Requirements

Lighting power density limits have been reduced across all building types, with commercial spaces now typically capped at 0.6 to 1.0 watts per square foot. This encourages the use of high-efficiency LED fixtures and more effective lighting designs. In fact, at least 90% of installed lighting in commercial spaces must now be high-efficacy, such as LED or equivalent options.

Automatic lighting controls are now mandatory in most commercial spaces. Offices, conference rooms, and storage areas must have occupancy sensors, while spaces with ample natural light require daylight-responsive dimming systems. Additionally, lighting circuits must include submetering for energy monitoring. Be sure to document the proper installation of these submeters during commissioning.

To ensure full electrical compliance, verify that occupancy sensors, daylight dimmers, and submetering systems are properly integrated. Conduct tests during commissioning to confirm that automatic controls respond accurately to occupancy and daylight changes.

Blueprint Commercial provides data-driven expertise to help navigate these detailed compliance requirements.

Post-Construction Checklist and Final Inspections

Once construction wraps up, securing occupancy hinges on completing documentation, passing final inspections, and maintaining compliance with regulations. Updates to the 2025 codes have made this process more detailed, with stricter documentation requirements and a sharper focus on verifying energy performance. This stage builds on earlier planning and expert guidance to ensure everything aligns with the new standards.

Required Compliance Documentation

The Department of Licenses and Inspections now mandates several key documents, including as-built drawings, energy test results, fire safety certifications, accessibility reports, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) commissioning reports. These must comply with the 2021 ICC codes adopted in 2025.

An updated compliance matrix is also essential. This spreadsheet outlines each major code section and explains how your project meets the requirements. Think of it as a quick-reference guide for inspectors, streamlining their review process without needing to sift through numerous documents.

Typical forms include:

• Final inspection request form

• Energy code compliance reports (e.g., REScheck or COMcheck)

• Fire alarm and sprinkler system certifications

• Elevator inspection certificates

• Accessibility checklists

For instance, blower door test results must confirm air leakage rates within the revised IECC limits, and a signed fire alarm system acceptance test form is required for approval.

To save time, submit all required documents digitally through the city’s online permitting portal before scheduling your final inspection. Missing or incomplete paperwork can lead to delays in approval and occupancy permits.

Once your documentation is ready, you can move on to scheduling the final inspection.

Final Inspection and Approval

Before the official inspection, conduct a pre-inspection walkthrough to ensure all systems are functioning correctly. Then, schedule the final inspection through the city’s online permitting portal.

Inspectors will focus on several critical areas, including:

• Life safety systems (fire alarms, sprinklers, emergency lighting)

• Accessibility features (ramps, signage, restrooms)

• Energy efficiency measures (insulation, air sealing, HVAC performance)

• Egress routes (ensuring safe and functional exits)

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They’ll also confirm proper documentation, system labeling, and that all code-required features match the approved plans.

For example, a Center City office project successfully navigated the 2021 ICC code adoption by leveraging early reviews and digital tracking, earning final approval on the first re-inspection.

If any issues arise, address the inspector’s correction notice quickly and schedule a re-inspection. The Certificate of Occupancy will only be issued once all deficiencies are resolved and verified, allowing legal building use.

Post-Occupancy Requirements

Even after final approval, compliance doesn’t stop. Regular maintenance and inspections are key to staying aligned with the 2025 code updates, which emphasize ongoing energy performance and system upkeep. Post-occupancy tasks include:

• Periodic maintenance and testing of fire protection systems

• Annual elevator inspections

• Continued energy usage reporting (if required locally)

• Maintaining accessibility features

Some jurisdictions also require periodic recertification or submission of maintenance logs to local authorities.

For commercial properties, annual or biennial inspections for safety, structural integrity, and electrical systems are often required. The exact frequency depends on local regulations and building type.

Energy efficiency remains a major focus, with periodic checks on HVAC system performance and accessibility standards, particularly in public and commercial buildings. Certain areas now enforce ongoing monitoring for life safety and energy systems post-occupancy.

To stay organized, keep both digital and hard copies of all compliance documentation. Arrange records by project phase and system type, and ensure they’re stored securely yet remain easily accessible. Update these files regularly to reflect maintenance and inspection activities.

Blueprint Commercial has extensive experience in the Philadelphia market, helping clients navigate local amendments, avoid common pitfalls, and adopt best practices for smoother approvals. Their strategic advice on compliance and portfolio management minimizes risks, delays, and violations while ensuring adherence to evolving regulations.

Code Compliance Resources and Expert Help

Navigating the 2025 building code updates can feel overwhelming without the right resources and expert guidance. Property owners and developers need reliable support to ensure their projects meet the updated standards. Here’s where to find the tools and expertise to keep your plans on track.

Official Regulatory Resources

The International Code Council (ICC) is the go-to authority for building code standards across the United States. Their ICC Digital Codes platform provides access to model codes and standards, including the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and the 2025 amendments that define current regulations. The ICC also shares a detailed code development schedule for 2024 through 2026, offering a roadmap of upcoming changes that could impact future projects.

For those working in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections is the primary source for local amendments and requirements.

If sustainability and energy efficiency are priorities, Green Building United is an excellent resource. They offer training sessions, workshops, and materials to help property owners understand how the 2025 updates incorporate sustainable practices into building codes.

Another key element of the 2025 updates is the adoption of the ICC A117.1-2017 accessibility standard, which sets detailed requirements for accessible and usable buildings. This standard is particularly relevant for commercial properties, including large assembly spaces, college lecture halls, and highway rest stops, where features like adult changing tables are now required.

Digital tools are also making compliance more manageable. Many property managers are turning to software to track checklists, maintain documentation, and ensure due diligence throughout the compliance process.

For more tailored guidance, local experts can provide valuable insights specific to your project.

Blueprint Commercial's Expert Guidance

In addition to these resources, Blueprint Commercial offers specialized local expertise to help you navigate the regulatory landscape. Based in Greater Philadelphia, this woman-owned commercial real estate brokerage translates complex regulations into actionable strategies.

Blueprint Commercial’s services include strategic portfolio and lease management, helping property owners understand the impact of the 2025 code updates on property values, development timelines, and overall investment strategies. Their data-driven approach provides clarity on compliance costs and the financial implications of the new regulations.

The firm’s founders, Maddie Whitehead and Gerry Smith, bring extensive knowledge of Philadelphia’s regulatory environment. Their expertise helps clients avoid common compliance mistakes and adopt best practices to streamline approvals. Whether it’s coordinating with the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections or managing documentation, their local insight is invaluable for navigating complex projects.

Blueprint Commercial takes a proactive approach to compliance. By working closely with local authorities and staying ahead of regulatory changes, they help minimize risks, avoid delays, and ensure projects meet the latest standards across the Greater Philadelphia area.

Conclusion: Getting Ready for 2025 Code Compliance

Philadelphia's 2025 building code updates are a major milestone for property owners and developers. With the deadline of July 13, 2025, approaching quickly, starting preparations early is key to keeping projects on track and avoiding unnecessary complications.

One example of early success comes from a mixed-use project that passed its first inspection by using a thorough checklist. This proactive approach helped the team avoid delays and save thousands of dollars.

The risks of non-compliance are steep. Industry data shows that making major corrections after inspections can increase total project costs by 5–15%. A detailed checklist acts as a safety net, ensuring that no critical steps are missed and costly mistakes are avoided.

Checklists also bring clarity to areas of flexibility. For instance, projects with contracts signed before July 13 can still file under the old codes - provided permits are submitted within six months. Newer projects, however, must fully adhere to the updated requirements.

While avoiding delays and penalties is a strong motivator, meeting the 2025 code standards has long-term benefits. Buildings designed to meet higher insulation and air sealing standards not only improve energy efficiency but also lower utility costs and reduce environmental impact throughout their lifespan.

To navigate these updates effectively, early collaboration with professionals and local authorities is crucial. Whether you're working with the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections or tapping into the expertise of local consultants like Blueprint Commercial, having knowledgeable guidance can simplify the process and help minimize risks.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t follow the updated 2025 Philadelphia building codes?

Failing to meet the updated 2025 Philadelphia building codes can come with serious repercussions. These might include steep fines, delays in securing project approvals, or even legal challenges. Beyond that, non-compliance could pose safety hazards, which might increase liability for both property owners and developers.

To sidestep these challenges, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the new regulations and ensure your projects align with the updated standards. Working with professionals familiar with local codes, such as Blueprint Commercial, can provide the guidance you need to navigate these changes and keep your projects moving smoothly.

What steps can property owners take to comply with the updated 2025 energy efficiency standards?

To ensure your projects align with the updated 2025 energy efficiency standards, start by thoroughly reviewing the changes in the new building codes. Pay particular attention to areas like insulation, HVAC systems, and energy-efficient lighting - these often play a big role in meeting compliance requirements.

It’s a smart move to consult with a professional who understands the 2025 updates. They can evaluate your property’s current condition and pinpoint any upgrades needed. Tackling potential compliance issues early can help you avoid unnecessary delays and expenses down the road.

For more tailored advice, consider working with experts like Blueprint Commercial, who have experience navigating complex real estate regulations. Their insights can simplify the process and ensure you stay on track.

What should property owners and developers do during pre-construction to comply with Philadelphia's 2025 building code updates?

To get ready for Philadelphia's 2025 building code updates, it's smart to start planning during the pre-construction phase. The first step? Dive into the updated regulations to see exactly how they might impact your project. Partnering with a licensed architect or engineer who understands these new requirements can make sure your plans are on the right track.

Some key actions to focus on include obtaining updated permits, confirming that your materials meet compliance standards, and integrating the energy efficiency and safety measures outlined in the revised code. Taking these steps early can save you from expensive delays or last-minute changes once construction is underway.