Looking for a HERS Rater in Mendon, MA?
Massachusetts became the first state to adopt an above-code appendix to the base building energy code known as the “Stretch Code”. The Stretch Code, which emphasizes energy performance as opposed to prescriptive requirements, is designed to result in cost-effective construction that is more energy efficient than that built to the mandatory state-wide IECC base code.
Mendon is one of the 296 municipalities in Massachusetts that has adopted this energy code.
HOW TO MEET STRETCH ENERGY CODE COMPLIANCE IN Mendon, MA:
In order to meet the requirements of the Stretch Code, builders must hire a certified HERS Rater, like Home Energy Raters, to perform a series of tests (HERS Rating) to determine if the home meets energy code compliance.
On 7/1/24, substantial changes to the Massachusetts building code went into effect for municipalities that have adopted the Stretch Energy Code. There is an overall push to remove fossil fuels from new buildings and higher HERS Ratings will be allowed for all-electric buildings.
HIGHLIGHTS OF CHANGES:
Residential New Construction Projects:
- HERS 42 for any mixed-fuel buildings
- HERS 42 for any mixed-fuel buildings with solar electric generation
- HERS 45 for all-electric buildings
- HERS 45 for all-electric buildings with solar electric generation
Renovation/Addition Projects:
- HERS 52 for any mixed-fuel buildings
- HERS 55 for any mixed-fuel buildings with solar electric generation
- HERS 55 for all-electric buildings
- HERS 58 for all-electric buildings with solar electric generation
– 1 EV-Ready space and wiring per house required (EV-Ready also required for multi-family projects but requirements vary)
– ERV or HRV will now be required. Bath fans no longer meet the requirement for whole- house mechanical ventilation. There are some models we recommend using (with lower wattage) that help the HERS Rating, but you can use any brand you would like. You will still need to meet the required CFM of ventilation.
– HVAC duct leakage testing is now required for all systems, even if all ducts are within the conditioned envelope
– HERS Ratings will be required for additions over 1,000 sq ft and/or over 50% of the original structure (Level 3 Alteration per IEBC)
A smooth path to energy code compliance in Mendon starts with a HERS Rating and a great Mendon HERS Rater.
Our team of 9 RESNET Certified HERS Raters and 4 Rating Field Inspectors has 25+ years of experience in the industry and with over 10,000 HERS Ratings under our belt, we know what it takes to help you get the best HERS score possible for your project! We work with you to identify any weak links early on during the design stage and provide support throughout the entire construction process.
SPECIALIZED STRETCH ENERGY CODE:
The following municipalities have adopted this new specialized Stretch Code:
Effective 7/1/23: Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville, Watertown
Effective 1/1/24: Action, Aquinnah, Arlington, Boston, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Maynard, Newton, Northampton, Sherborn, Stow, Truro, Wellesley, Wellfleet, Worcester
Effective 7/1/24: Amherst, Bedford, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Medford, Melrose, Needham, Norwood, Salem, Swampscott, Wakefield, Weston, Worcester
Effective 1/1/25: Ashfield, Ashland, Belmont, Dedham, Eastham, Easthampton, Hopkinton, Milton, Sharon, Wayland, West Tisbury
Effective 1/1/25: Natick, Newburyport
Specialized Energy Code Compliance:
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HERS RATING PROCESS, CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO BELOW:
Customer Reviews
“Home Energy Raters has been an outstanding company work with on all of our projects. The staff is knowledgeable, proficient, and responsive. They go above and beyond for their customers and will do everything they can to make sure your homes are up to code and energy efficient! We will continue to use them on all of our projects in the future and suggest you do as well!”
– Matt Sheridan, Sheridan Home Builders
“Great company to work with! Every construction project should have HERs ratings, we find insulation “mistakes” in every project. Very easy to fix during construction but difficult after. Highly recommend!”
– Alison Alessi, A3 Architects
Home Energy Raters is your Mendon HERS Rater!
Ready to schedule a HERS Rating for your project? Fill out the form below or give us a call at 508-833-3100.
