Quick Answer: California’s Title 24 Energy Code (Building Energy Efficiency Standards) requires all new construction and major renovations to meet specific energy efficiency minimums for insulation, windows, HVAC, lighting, and

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Title 24 Energy Code Bay Area 2025 — What Homeowners Need to Know

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Quick Answer: California’s Title 24 Energy Code (Building Energy Efficiency Standards) requires all new construction and major renovations to meet specific energy efficiency minimums for insulation, windows, HVAC, lighting, and water heating. In the Bay Area, Title 24 affects: any room addition, ADU, kitchen or bathroom remodel with new lighting, window replacement, HVAC system replacement, and attic conversions. Compliance requires a Title 24 energy calculation report ($400–$1,500) submitted with the permit application. All Quartz Construction projects include Title 24 compliance documentation as standard.

Title 24 Requirements by Project Type

ProjectTitle 24 RequirementsHERS Testing?
Room additionR-38 ceiling, R-21 walls, compliant windowsYes (most cities)
ADUFull envelope + mechanical complianceYes
Kitchen remodel (new lighting)LED fixtures, occupancy sensorsNo
Window replacementU-factor ≤0.30, SHGC ≤0.23 (Climate Zone 4)No (prescriptive)
HVAC replacementMinimum SEER2 15, refrigerant typeYes (duct testing)
Attic conversionR-38 insulation minimum, mechanical upgradeYes
Whole-house remodel (>50% new)Full Title 24 complianceYes

Question: What is HERS testing and when is it required in the Bay Area? HERS (Home Energy Rating System) testing is a third-party field verification of Title 24 energy measures performed by a certified HERS Rater. It’s required when the permit calls for duct testing, insulation verification, or mechanical system commissioning. HERS testing cost: $250–$600 per visit, and projects typically need 2 visits (rough inspection + final). Bay Area cities that require HERS include San Jose, Fremont, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and most unincorporated county areas. San Francisco has a slightly different process (SF Energy Code has additional requirements beyond base Title 24).

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