Structures must be designed and constructed using either a Prescriptive Approach or a Performance Approach. A new compliance option under the Performance Approach allows a builder to earn energy credits by using the High Quality Installation of Insulation Procedures.

The procedure and credit applies to wood framed construction with wall stud cavities, ceilings, and roof assemblies insulated with mineral fiber (which includes fiber glass, rock wool or slag wool) or cellulose insulation in low-rise residential buildings. Requirements for the procedure are detailed in Appendix RH of the 2005 Residential ACM Manual - High Quality Insulation Installation Procedures.

Under the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) program, third-party providers are trained and certified to provide diagnostics and field verification of insulation installation. There are two certified providers in the State of California:

• CHEERS (California Home Energy Efficiency Rating System)
• CalCERTS

If a builder takes advantage of the energy credit, the builder MUST have a HERS rater field verify the design and installation. An Insulation Certificate (IC-1), signed by the insulation installer, must be provided that states that the installation is consistent with the plans and specifications for which the building permit was issued. The insulation installer must also complete and sign an Installation Certificate (CF-6R) and attach a bag label or a manufacturer's coverage chart for every insulation material used. Both certificates must be made available on the building site for each of the HERS rater's verification inspections. The HERS rater cannot verify compliance credit without these completed forms. Upon satisfactory verification, Form CF-4R will then be completed by the HERS rater.

The California Energy Commission encourages local building departments to remind the builder of the HERS requirements EARLY in construction, so that field verification can take place without delaying the project.

Use of the High Quality Installation of Insulation procedures is a compliance option; it is NOT mandated by the State of California. However, when this procedure is followed and documented by the insulation installer and a qualified HERS rater, the builder can earn a significant energy compliance credit.

Other relevant standards include:

• Materials shall comply with Uniform Building Code (including, but not limited to, 1997 UBC Section 707) and installed to meet all applicable fire codes.
• Materials shall meet California Quality Standards for Insulating Material, Title 24, Chapter 4, Article 3, listed in the California Department of Consumer Affairs Consumer Guide and Directory of Certified Insulating Materials.