Which of the following is NOT a variation of the Ontario Building Code from National Construction Codes?

The distinction between the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and the National Construction Codes (NCC) often centers on areas where provinces and territories have the authority to implement more stringent requirements. Structural stability is a fundamental principle that underlies national construction standards; thus, it remains consistent across all provinces, including Ontario.

In contrast, the other areas mentioned—accessibility, energy efficiency, and secondary suites—are components where Ontario may have variations or adopt more specific regulations that reflect local needs, standards, or policies. For example, Ontario has specific regulations regarding accessibility requirements that go beyond the national standards, aiming to enhance access for individuals with disabilities. Similarly, issues concerning energy efficiency have also seen provincial variations, with Ontario implementing unique standards to promote sustainability. Moreover, secondary suites have their own set of provincial guidelines that may differ from those outlined in national criteria to address local housing demands and conditions.

Understanding these differences highlights why structural stability is a core principle that is generally uniform across construction codes, whereas the other aspects can adapt to meet Ontario's specific regulatory environment.