What Is Washington CBPS?
Washington’s new law is impacting property owners across the state. The CBPS is a rule that makes buildings lower their energy use and pollution.
This program helps Washington reach climate goals by requiring buildings to become energy efficient. By using less energy, owners can save money, reduce pollution, and improve their building’s NOI.
Now that we know what CBPS is, let’s look at how this affects Tier 2 properties.
What Does Tier 2 Mean?
You may have heard people talk about Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings. Tier 1 covers very large buildings. Tier 2 is for medium-size buildings.
In Washington, Tier 2 buildings are those that are 20,000 to 50,000 square feet. This group includes many offices, schools, and small apartment buildings. If your property falls in this size range, Tier 2 rules apply to you.
Now that we know the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 let’s review the key deadlines you need to remember.
When Are The Tier 2 Deadlines
Washington has set clear dates for Tier 2 buildings.
Starting July 1, 2025, owners must begin tracking and reporting building energy use.
By July 1, 2027, compliance reports must be submitted to the Washington Department of Commerce.
These deadlines seem far away, but the work takes time. Tracking energy, gathering documents, and writing reports is not fast. The earlier you start, the easier it is to meet the rules.
Let’s review what the requirements include.
What Are the Requirements
Meeting CBPS rules may sound tough, but the steps are clear. Tier 2 buildings must:
- Track energy use through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
- Create and submit a compliance report to the Department of Commerce.
If needed, upgrade equipment or operations to lower energy use.
The state wants proof that your building is on track to meet energy goals. Some buildings may already be efficient and only need to report. Others may need to make changes.
Understanding the requirements is step one. Step two? Knowing the costs.
How Much Will It Cost?
Costs will vary.
A newer office may only need a consultant to handle reporting. An older school may need upgrades like new heating systems or better lighting.
The good news is that Washington has funding and incentive programs to help cover these costs. Some buildings can get up to 100% of their compliance expenses paid for.
How? Washington created an ‘Early Adopters’ fund. Property owners who act early can get up to 100% of their CBPS compliance costs covered by the state.
Interested in checking if you can get your compliance costs covered? Then: Visit This Site Here.
With funding available, owners should see CBPS not as a burden, but as an opportunity. This leads to the next big benefit, savings.
How Can Owners Benefit | NOI
CBPS is not just about rules and fines. It also brings rewards. Buildings that cut energy use can see lower utility bills each month. Over time, these savings improve a building’s NOI.
Energy-efficient buildings are also more attractive to tenants and buyers. People like living and working in spaces that are modern, green, and comfortable.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Missing deadlines is expensive. The state has the power to fine owners who do not follow CBPS rules. Fines may be up to $1 per square foot of building space. For a 40,000-square-foot property, that could mean a $40,000 penalty.
Beyond fines, non-compliance may hurt your property’s value. Future buyers and tenants may prefer buildings that are already compliant.
Avoiding risk is simple, start early and stay on schedule. Next, let’s look at how to get prepared.
How Do You Prepare?
Getting ready for Tier 2 compliance is easier if you follow a plan. Here are a few key steps:
- Hire an energy consultant who knows CBPS rules.
- Benchmark your building in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
- Identify areas where you can save energy.
- Explore funding options to cover upgrade costs.
By preparing now, you save stress later. Remember, compliance is not a one-time job. It’s an ongoing process.
Once you’re prepared, you’ll want to know what resources are available.
Where Can You Get Help?
The Washington Department of Commerce provides guides and resources online. There are also local energy consultants and firms that handle the full compliance process.
Our company has helped (as of writing) 117 property owners get CBPS compliant with ZERO out of pocket costs. Interested in seeing if we can do the same for you?
Schedule a quick eligibility call with our team. One of our experts will review your property and see if it qualifies. If it does we’ll create a proposal for you and start applying for your free money (pending your approval).
Final Thoughts on Tier 2 CBPS
Tier 2 deadlines are coming, and mid-size building owners need to act. The rules are clear, track your energy, submit your report, and make changes if needed.
The earlier you start, the more options you have. With incentives, savings, and expert help, compliance is not just a requirement, it’s a smart investment.
Washington’s CBPS Tier 2 is about more than rules. It’s about creating efficient, healthy buildings for the future. And the time to begin is now.
