Verifier’s Resource Guide -...

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Verifier’s

Resource

Guide Version 4.1

Based on

ICC 700-2012

National Green Building

Standard™

© 2014

This Verifier’s Resource Guide is for projects seeking certification to the 2012 version of the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standard™. There is a separate Verifier’s Resource Guide for projects seeking certification to the 2008 version. Although similar in many ways there are also significant differences. Please be sure to perform the verifications using the correct guidance.

© 2014 Home Innovation Research Labs, Inc. All rights reserved. This document is protected by U.S. copyright law. Use of this document is authorized only for those individuals/organizations participating in Home Innovation’s Green Building Certification and solely for the purpose of seeking project certification from Home Innovation Research Labs, Inc. Requirements from ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standard™ © 2013 National Association of Home Builders of the U.S. used by permission.

National Green National Green Building Standard Verifier’s Resource Guide – Version 4.1 January 2014 FOR ACCREDITED VERIFIER USE ONLY – DO NOT COPY OR DISTRIBUTE i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS .................................................................................................................... 2

LOT DESIGN, PREPARATION, AND DEVELOPMENT ......................................................................... 17

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY .................................................................................................................... 29

ENERGY EFFICIENCY ......................................................................................................................... 46

WATER EFFICIENCY ........................................................................................................................... 70

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ................................................................................................. 76

OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND BUILDING OWNER EDUCATION................................................ 88

RESIDENTIAL RENOVATIONS AND ADDITIONS ................................................................................ 92

LAND DEVELOPMENT – NEW AND EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS ...................................................... 94

APPENDIX A Scoring Principles Document ........................................................................................... 95

APPENDIX B SUMMARY OF CHANGES .............................................................................................. 97

National Green National Green Building Standard Verifier’s Resource Guide – Version 4.1 January 2014 FOR ACCREDITED VERIFIER USE ONLY – DO NOT COPY OR DISTRIBUTE 2

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS This document provides guidance regarding the documentation expected from the builder and the instructions to the verifier for each practice included in the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standard™ (NGBS) and is to be used when completing the Verification Report.

COMMUNICATIONS It is very important for Verifiers to stay current on the program, the expected verification process, and interpretations. A monthly Verifier Update is emailed to the address that is on file at Home Innovation Research Labs, Inc. (“Home Innovation”). If your email address changes please be sure to update Home Innovation via the “Contact Us” form at www.HomeInnovation.com. This form should also be used to submit specific questions that you may have. Please choose Green Building Certification for the subject. Please be sure your spam filter has the domain HomeInnovation.com white listed.

WORKING WITH BUILDERS, DEVELOPERS, REMODELERS Verifiers should be familiar with the terms of the Verifier Agreement and the Builder Agreement. Verifiers set their own fees for providing verification services. Verifiers should make sure that Builders, Developers, and Remodelers understand how the certification program works. Specifically, a new builder needs to be aware that they will need to sign a Builder/Developer Agreement with Home Innovation Research Labs and provide Home Innovation a general commercial liability certificate of insurance naming Home Innovation Research Labs as an additional insured. They should also understand that we do not process final reports and issue certificates until those documents are on file and we have received payment for the certificate.

GUIDANCE This Resource Guide provides guidance on the certification/verification process, what to look for, and when to approve points. If there is any uncertainty about a particular line item, do not approve the points but describe the situation in the Verification Notes column. A note of explanation is always expected when points are claimed but not approved or when points are awarded outside of the normal inspection for that practice.

The verification process is intended to confirm that the builder has met the intent of the practice. Points should not be approved if it appears that the builder is merely trying to manipulate the system to earn points. Use your best judgment and include notes in the Verification Report.

When a specific type of analysis is requested, an equivalent analysis is also acceptable. Unless stated otherwise, when a percentage of something is required the expectation is that it was largely implemented to the best possible extent. It is not expected that the Verifier will spend time calculating to see what the percentage is—use your best judgment without calculating.

When the instructions say:

“Verify” – Review the documentation (and inspect when applicable) to determine compliance.

“Inspect” – Inspect the building and confirm compliance via observation. Inspect sufficiently to satisfy yourself that the intent of the practice has been met.

LOT DESIGN, PREPARATION, AND DEVELOPMENT


“Verify by documentation review and observation” – this requires both documentation review and inspection to verify that the practice was implemented consistent with the documentation.

After verifying or inspecting, enter the points approved in the “Points Awarded” column for each item. Enter “0” if claimed points have not been earned and enter note of explanation. Only approve points when you have personally verified them; when permitted in this Guide, this may also mean that you personally verify that another third party has provided a document consistent with the documentation/instructions in this Guide.

INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS Two inspections are required for new construction:

1) Before drywall but after complete framing, rough plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and insulation installation; and

2) After installation of all flooring, appliances, HVAC equipment, plumbing & electrical fixtures, and landscaping but before closing or occupancy.

If the alternate Bronze level ENERGY STAR scoring path is chosen, the ENERGY STAR Certification can be used to verify compliance with all of the Chapter 7 mandatory requirements. However, the mandatory requirements in the other chapters must still be verified during either the rough or final inspection or via third-party documentation as listed in the “Documentation …” section of this Guide.

Each inspection is to document the condition of the building as built at the time of the inspection. Points should only be approved for practices that you personally verify by inspection or by documentation review as instructed by this Guide. Please do not take into account what the builder or a trade contractor says they will do in the future or what the homeowner may do in the future. The building or development is certified “as originally built” based on the green practices the verifier has confirmed as complete.

A few items require partial inspection at the rough stage and part at the final stage. When this is the case, enter “OK at rough” in the rough inspection column and approve points at final. The inspection is to be done without climbing on roofs, ladders, in attics, or uncovering walls, foundation, etc. Follow all builder safety instructions.

Begin each inspection by confirming the address/description of the house on the Verification Report with the address/description of the building to be inspected. Also take a digital photo of the front of the home/building being inspected. The photo should be taken from the curb or driveway entrance and show the full front elevation and some adjacent landscape. In a typical neighborhood the photo should show the edge of the neighboring lots. If there is a lot/landscape practice that you have awarded points for and it is not obvious in the photo please include a note of explanation for that practice on the verification report (e.g. tress are behind the house). Please keep the photo size to 1MB or less.

Fill in the inspection date and start time on the Verification Report signature page. Conduct the inspection with guidance from this Resource Guide and record the points approved on the Verification Report. If there are questions please make notes on the Verification Report to explain the situation and Home Innovation review will follow up and clarify the situation.


January 2014 National Green National Green Building Standard Verifier’s Resource Guide – Version 4.1 4 FOR ACCREDITED VERIFIER USE ONLY – DO NOT COPY OR DISTRIBUTE

Verification inspections are only to be done by accredited verifiers. Verification inspection may not be done by others in the verifier’s organization unless they are accredited. However, where the NGBS or this VRG allows the verifier to accept a 3rd party inspection report or document for a specific practice that inspection does not have to be done by an accredited verifier, only a competent 3rd party. The inspection report should be signed by the accredited verifier who actually does the on-site inspection. The report should be dated based on the date of the on-site inspection.

DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS Some practices require documentation to complete the verification. The builder is expected to make certain documentation (listed in this Guide) available to the Verifier. The documentation review is typically done onsite during the inspection, but it can also be arranged for any mutually agreeable time. For some practices the documentation is a pre-requisite to implementing the practice. For those practices the documentation review must be completed before or at the same time as the inspection. The “Documentation To Be Available To Verifier” column in this Resource Guide lists the expected documentation. Some documentation is listed as “Required.” There is no exception for Required Documentation; this must be provided even if the document is created by the Verifier (e.g., Manual J analysis). Other documentation not listed as “Required” is intended to represent acceptable documentation sufficient to meet the requirement but it is not mandatory. There may be other documentation that serves the equivalent purpose or the documentation may not be needed if the Verifier can confirm the practice by inspection. In some instances manufacturer’s literature is acceptable while for other practices a third-party document is required. Where the Resource Guide asks for documentation by a “qualified professional” it must be provided by a licensed or trained person with acknowledged expertise in the referenced field and who provides that service as a part of his/her livelihood. In reviewing the document the Verifier should confirm the person preparing the documented is a qualified professional. Documentation for practices, where the document is expected to guide the construction, must be done and used in the construction/planning. It is not acceptable to create a document after the fact. For example, the Manual S must be done to size the HVAC before the system is installed.

While documentation may be needed in some cases, in other cases, depending on the circumstances and the Verifier, it might not be required. For example, if a home is claiming points for 503.5 (3)(b) for the turf being 0-25% of the landscaped area the documentation requirement states, “Calculation showing % of lot (minus building footprint & hardscape) that is turf.” But if it is obvious that the turf is much less than 25% then no calculation is required. On the other hand, if the turf is about 20-30% then you would want to see the calculation to be sure it falls below the 25% threshold. Another example would be practice 503.2 (4) regarding terracing and landscaping to reduce long-term erosion effects. The documentation requirement states, “Report from qualified professional stating intent of the requirement has been met.” If based on the Verifier’s background and experience, the Verifier can make this judgment on site, then no report is required. But if the Verifier has no experience in making that type of judgment then a statement from a qualified professional is needed. When working with a builder, please let them know if there are any practices that you will not require the documentation because you will verify that practice yourself based on your qualifications and experience and the type of building being verified.

Home Innovation is now pre-approving products as eligible for points for specific practices. The list of products and practices can be found at http://www.homeinnovation.com/greenproducts. If a builder is using a Green Approved product the Green Approved status is sufficient documentation to approve the points in accordance with any other applicable criteria of the



practice (e.g., two products with re-cycled content are required). http://www.homeinnovation.com/greenproducts lists any additional conditions of use for approving points. Chapter 13 of the NGBS provides a listing of the appropriate version of the documents referenced in the NGBS. These documents are listed alphabetically by the organization responsible for the document and there is a cross reference to each practice number which that version of the document applies to. It is incorrect to assume that the most recent docu ment or the version that may have been adopted by the lo cal jurisdiction should be followed. Local code does not take precedent over the NGBS. Just because the local code does not require something does not mean that an NGBS mandatory practice is not applicable. In the unusual situation where a local code prohibits a mandatory NGBS practice; then in that case the practice is not mandatory.

REGISTERING THE PROJECT The Home Innovation Green Certified™ process begins with the project registration. When the project is registered, this is the first notice that a building has entered the green certification pipeline. Home Innovation staff will contact the Builder and get ready to issue the green certification for the project once the verifier confirms that it has been earned. All projects must be registered before inspections can be performed. Registration is done by the verifier once a commitment has been received from the builder that the project will be certified. Accredited Verifiers can register the project online at www.HomeInnovation.com/VeriferCentral. There is no cost to register a project.

All buildings for a multiunit projects are registered at the same time and receive the same Project ID. Multiunit projects also need to have a project information form completed before they are entered into the database. An email is sent to both the verifier and project contact when the project is registered. This email contains a link to the form that needs to be completed. Please work with your developers to make sure this form is completed quickly.

NOTIFY THE HOME INNOVATION OF SCHEDULED INSPECTIONS The builder schedules both the rough and final inspections with the verifier. Once each inspection date has been scheduled, the verifier must promptly notify Home Innovation o f the inspection date, address, and inspection type . Inspection notification is done online at www.homeinnovation.com/VerifierCentral. The project ID which was assigned during the registration process is needed for the notification step. Once the Project ID has been entered, the inspection notification information will be pre-populated with the information from the registration process. This information should be updated if it has changed since registration. If no changes are needed, the only thing to be done is to enter the inspection date. This notification initiates the invoicing process for the certification fee and allows for random spot checks by Home Innovation on the verification process in order to ensure accuracy and consistency. Failure to promptly notify Home Innovation of the schedule will jeopardize the issuing of the certificate for the project as well as continued participation as an Accredited Verifier.

Multifamily Notifications – For multifamily buildings, Home Innovation should be notified prior to the first rough inspection visit for each building and also prior to the first final inspection visit to each building. There is no need to notify of subsequent rough or final inspection visits that may be required to inspect all the units. As part of the multifamily registration, a Multifamily Project Information form is sent to the verifier and the builder. This online form must be completed and submitted before the project is fully registered and an inspection notification can be submitted.



THE INITIAL INSPECTION Prior to the initial inspection, the builder will email the scoring spreadsheet workbook to the verifier. Verifier’s need to take a pro-active approach to ensure that builders have supplied the scoring information prior to the need for the rough inspection. Some builders have been known to forget to do this resulting in a missed inspection which in turn will result in a missed certification.

Verifiers may use a paper print out of the verification report to conduct the inspection or they may use a laptop or tablet. You must use a MS Windows system that runs Excel 2007 or Excel 2010 for scoring and verification. Problems will be encountered if you try to use other systems or earlier versions of the software. Print out a copy of the signature page for signing at the completion of the inspection.

ROUGH INSPECTION At the beginning of the rough inspection, confirm with the builder that the points claimed on the Verification Report and the desired certification level is as intended by the builder. The verifier will use the Verification Report to record the points that have been approved based on the inspections.

At the end of the Rough Inspection the verifier should fill in the time completed and then sign off on the rough inspection. A builder signature on the rough inspection form is not required for 2012 certifications but it is strongly recommended that you be sure the builder is well aware of any shortcomings that you found during the verification process that might affect the final certification level. Getting the builder’s signature/acknowledgement on the rough inspection form is the best way to accomplish this. Inform the builder that your next step is to email the results of the Rough Inspection to Home Innovation. The verifier should also inform the builder that a “Builder Agreement” will be sent from Home Innovation if an agreement is not already on file. Take a photo of the building from the curb. The photo should show the home/building and some of the surrounding lot. Please only send small- to medium-sized JPG images that are between 200 and 800 KB (max of 1 MB). When submitting photos (and Verification Reports), name the files with a reference to the project ID. The Verifier should update the Verification Report sheet of the scoring workbook to include results of the inspection. Then email ASAP the scoring workbook (as an Excel file), the digital photo of the home inspected to Home Innovation ([email protected]). The signature page should be scanned and emailed to [email protected]. The Verifier should also email the builder a copy of the scoring workbook after the Rough Inspection.

FINAL INSPECTION The final inspection is scheduled and conducted in the same manner as the rough inspection.

At the end of the Final Inspection, the verifier should fill in the time completed and the verifier and the builder should sign-off on the Final Inspection. Take a photo of the building from the curb. The photo should show the home/building and some of the surrounding lot. After the Final Inspection, the verifier should update the electronic version of the Verification Report to include results of the inspection and then email ASAP the Verification Report (as an Excel file), a scanned copy of the signed signature page, and the digital photo of the home inspected to Home Innovation to [email protected]. The Verifier should also email the builder with copy of the scoring workbook after the Final Inspection. This is time critical as most Builders need the certificate at closing.



The builder is required to keep all the documentation provided as a part of the inspection process. The verifier is required to keep a copy scoring workbook with the final verification, the digital photos, a copy of the energy analysis if the Performance Path is used, and any information related to uncertain items as noted, as well as supporting information relative to points claimed by the builder but denied by the verifier. The verifier may keep any other records they want provided it is acceptable to the builder. These records may be kept as hardcopies or electronically.

If there is a weather related delay (e.g., winter) that prevents the project from being 100% complete, the Final Verification Report may still be submitted and certification issued provided that points are not needed for any practices that have not yet been completed. If the weather delayed points are needed for certification and the builder needs to go to closing and would like a preliminary certificate, Home Innovation will issue a preliminary certificate ($30 fee). The final certificate will be issued once the weather delayed practices have been completed and verified and the verifier notifies Home Innovation of the completion.

If more than 90 days elapses since the final inspection was conducted on site and when Home Innovation can finally issue the certificate (e.g. due to verifier waiting on documentation or delay by the builder submitting payment for the certification) Home Innovation will require a follow up inspection to ensure that the home is still substantially the same as originally inspected.

If there will be a delay in submitting the final verification report due to needing additional documentation, the final inspection signature page should include the date the actual inspection was done and a note explaining the delay in submitting the report.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING VERIFICATION REPORT For the 2012 certifications, the Verification Report is contained within the scoring workbook. When starting any new project the verifier should ensure that the designer has used the most current version of the workbook. The current version is always available from www.homeinnovation.com/greenscoring. Major changes to the workbook are announced in the Verifier Update but minor unannounced changes are often made to clarify the expectation or improve the format. Once you begin a project there is no need to change if a more recent version is available.

The Verification Report lists each practice. Some practices on the Verification Report have been abbreviated. These practices are shown on the Verification Report in italics. Verifiers are expected to know the complete practice and refer to the NGBS and this Verifier’s Resource Guide as needed to be sure practices are being completely met.

The following outlines the instructions for completing the verification sheet in the workbook.

1) Click on the “Verification Report” tab to get the spreadsheet for recording the results of your inspections.

2) On the Rough Signature sheet fill in the name of the builder rep, your name, and inspection date. Print out a copy of the Verification Report and the Rough Signature page and take them with you to the rough inspection.

3) Conduct your inspection according to the information provided in the Verifier’s Resource Guide. Take a front elevation photo of the home.

4) Award points in the rough inspection column following the verifier instructions in this Guide. Gray shaded cells in the rough inspection column in dicate that points are NOT normally awarded for that practice d uring the rough



inspection. You may award points out of sequence but if you do, you must include a note of explanation justifying how you verified the practice at the rough inspection. If there are any practices that were claimed by the designer but are clearly not going to be met then put a 0 in the points awarded and include a note of explanation. Some practices must be verified at rough. Those practices will have the final inspection column in dark gray. Please be sure that the builder has any documentation available for these practices at the rough inspection and that these practices are verified at rough.

5) At the conclusion of the inspection, add up the points awarded for each section and transfer them manually to the Rough Signature page.

6) Sign the Rough Signature form. It is strongly recommended to also get the builder’s representative to sign the rough inspection form.

7) Update the Verification Report spreadsheet with the values from the rough inspection. Mandatory entries have a yellow cell. Please do not submit a rough inspection report with any yellow cells in the Rough column or in the header area or notes column. If you must submit the report with any of these cells yellow, please include a note of explanation. NOTE: The Verification Report will “signal” you if there may be an error in entering points by highlighting a cell RED. A red cell indicates you may have inserted an incorrect number of points or in some way violated mandatory scoring logic. Double check to see if a correction is needed. Red cells are often related to any red text in the practice description. When two cells highlight red the issue is often a conflict between the practices.

8) When all the mandatory practices have been addressed and there are no red or yellow highlighted cells, then the report status cell at the top and bottom of the report will indicate “ready to submit”. If there are issues, these cells will highlight red and say “not ready to submit.” If the indication is not ready to submit, please review the report and address any highlighted cells. If you have reviewed everything and still cannot clear a highlighted cell, please include a note of explanation when you submit the report.

9) Scan the signed rough signature page and email the scanned signature page, the electronic version of the scoring workbook with the results of your verification, and the photo to [email protected].

10) Prior to conducting the final inspection, fill in the name of the builder rep, your name, inspection date, expected level, and verifier disclosure on the final signature sheet. Print out a copy of the final signature. Print a new copy of the verification report or use the same one that was printed for the rough inspection. Take these forms with you to the final inspection.

11) Conduct your inspection according to the information provided in the Verifier’s Resource Guide. Take a front elevation photo of the building.

12) Award points in the final inspection column following the Verifier instructions in this Guide. Gray shaded cells in the final inspection column in dicate that points are NOT normally awarded for that practice during t he final inspection. You may award points out of sequence but if you do, you must include a note of explanation justifying how you verified the practice at the Final inspection.



13) At the conclusion of the inspection, add up the points awarded for each section and transfer them manually to the Final Signature page.

14) Sign the Final Signature form and get the Builder’s representative to sign the Final Signature form.

15) Update the Verification Report spreadsheet in the scoring workbook by awarding points in the final inspection column. Mandatory entries have a yellow cell. Gray shaded cells in the final inspection column indicate that points are NOT normally awarded for that practice during the final inspection. You may award points out of sequence but if you do, you must include a note of explanation justifying how you verified out of sequence. Please do not submit a final inspection report with any yellow or red cells anywhere in the spreadsheet. If you must submit the report with any of these cells red, please include a note of explanation (see note in step 7).

16) Scan the signed Final Signature page and email the scanned signature page, photo, and the updated electronic version of the scoring workbook with the results of your verification to [email protected]. If the building is using the performance path also submit a copy of the energy analysis.

Verification Reports should be submitted as soon as possible after the inspection has been completed, preferably the next day. Builders typically want the certificate in a few days for closing. Home Innovation will process the report and issue the certificate the next business day if there are no review questions associated with the final report. But Home Innovation does require that payment has been received for the certification and that we have the Builder Agreement on file with current evidence of insurance before we will process the report. If we are missing something from the builder, they are emailed a reminder when we receive the final report. All certificates must be issued within 90 days of the final inspection date. If the report is not submitted or there are other delays (e.g., non-payment) that extend beyond 90 days, a new final inspection and report must be submitted if the building is to be certified.

All Verification Report submissions should be email ed to [email protected] . Attachments should be 1MB or smaller in size. The Verification Reports should be the entire scoring w orkbook as a working spreadsheet (not pdf).

Columns A & B of the Verification Report provide you with some options when the report is printed or shown on the screen. If you are familiar with the use of filters in Excel, the use of this report should be straight forward. Column A “Print Practices with Points” will contain a “P” when points are claimed and for mandatory practices. Clicking on the filter icon in cell A12 will allow you to choose to show only those practices that for which points have been claimed. Column A is protected and you have no ability to change the values. Column B “Inspection Sequence” contains an “R” if the practice is normally verified at the rough stage and contains and “F” if it is normally verified at the Final Inspection. Some practices need to be checked at both rough and final and these are coded “RF.” By using the filter icon in cell B12 you can chose which practices to display and print. You can edit column B to change from Rough to Final based on your builder’s construction practices, or you can simply change to another letter (e.g., “x”) and choose never to display that practice simply because it is never applicable to your area. Please remember that you are responsible for being sure all the mandatory practices are addressed and if you use column B to suppress printing any of these be sure you have addressed them before submitting the report.

For accountability reasons, Home Innovation requires an acknowledgement from the builder that the home was built in accordance with the green practices which the building is credited for. This is typically done by having a builder representative sign-off on the Rough and Final



Verification Reports and this is the preferred method. However, tracking down a builder has often caused an additional delay and expense in filing the report. Home Innovation now allows two alternative approaches to getting the builder’s signature, if the builder agrees. Both approaches expect that the verifier provides the builder with a copy of the Verification Report. Both options also require that builder first complete three certifications where the Final Reports are actually signed. Both options also require that the VERIFIER complete the Excel signature pages for date of inspection, start and stop time, etc. The Excel signature page must also be completed for the builder if special delivery instructions are to be used. Please email [email protected] if you would like additional information on how to use these options. Please do not attempt to use an alternative until all the criteria this approach has been approved by Home Innovation. This approval is verifier specific as well as builder specific.

VERIFICATION REPORT CORRECTIONS Verifiers are expected to accurately and fully complete the Rough and Final Verification Inspections and Reports. Verifiers may submit a revised report if a practice has been overlooked or incorrectly scored. But, such a submission should clearly indicate in both the cover email and in the report, notes that it is a revised report and nature of the revision. It is acceptable to approve at the final inspection points that were overlooked at the rough inspection instead of submitting a revised Rough Report but this should be done only for practices that are still verifiable at the final inspection. For practices that can only be verified at the rough inspection, the correction should be made before the drywall goes up. MISSING A MANDATORY PRACTICE THAT CAN ONLY BE VERIFIED AT ROU GH WILL CAUSE THE BUILDING TO BE INELIGIBLE FOR CERTIFICATION. PHOTOS AND OTHER EVIDENCE ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE FOR AFTER THE FACT VERIFICATION UNLESS PERMITTED IN THIS GUIDE.

A builder may change the Chapter 7 scoring path at any time before the certificate is issued but Verifiers should understand and communicate to the builder the consequences of the change. A problem occurs if a builder plans on following the Performance Path and then decides to switch to the Prescriptive Path after the Rough Verification Report has been submitted. Many of the prescriptive practices require verification at the rough inspection. A builder following the Performance Path at the rough inspection will lose the opportunity to gain points for those Prescriptive Path practices that must be veri fied at rough.

HOME INNOVATION REVIEW OF VERIFICATION REPORTS Home Innovation will review all Rough and Final Verification Reports and may contact a Verifier for clarification on particular items. Please respond promptly to any follow-up so that you will not delay the processing of the report and the certificate. Reviewer questions will be sent via email with specific questions or clarifications. Please reply by using the Reply All option and simply answer the questions presented. Please do not send an updated verification report unless specifically requested; simply answer the questions asked.

TECHNICAL HELP ON NGBS PRACTICES & VERIFICATION If you have a question about an NGBS practice, interpretation, unique situation, or the verification process, please submit the question via http://www.homeinnovation.com/about/contact_us and choose Green Building Certification from the subject menu. (Please do not submit these types of question to the verifier training site (verifiertraining.homeinnovation.com); tech support questions at the training site are only appropriate if you are having trouble with your computer access or function on the site). Should a question arise in the middle of a verification inspection, please use your judgment to make the decision to award points or not and include a note when you submit the report. Phone calls to



Home Innovation in the middle of an inspection will not likely be answered in time to resolve the issue.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY OPTIONS (CHAPTER 7) There are several options for meeting the chapter 7 requirements. These are outlined in the chart below.

Please note that if the “Alternate Bronze ” approach is taken, then Bronze is the only level of certification that can be achieved. If the Alternate Bronze path is chosen, the ENERGY STAR Certification is considered as satisfying all the Chapter 7 mandatory practices and achieving the Bronze threshold of points for Chapter 7. Verifiers are encouraged to actually inspect for the mandatory requirements at the rough stage just in case the ENERGY STAR certificate is never received. If a home plans to use the Alternate Bronze approach and the mandatory practices are not verified at rough and then the ENERGY STAR certificate is not received then the home cannot be certified. Although the 701 practices will not highlight yellow if Alternative Bronze is chosen, Verifiers are encouraged to address all the mandatory practices in Chapter 7 just as a precaution. No points should be awarded in either 702 or 703 but additional points may be awarded in 704 or 705. But regardless of the number of points for Chapter 7 or the overall total, a home following the Alternate Bronze path may not be certified at any level higher than Bronze. If a Builder decides to switch from Alternate Bronze to another path it must be done before the rough inspection is done. The Builder may switch to the Alternate Bronze path at anytime. Homes seeking to use the Alternative Bronze approach must be certified to ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 (August 29, 2011).



MODULAR HOMES Modular homes can be certified per the NGBS. There are two options for getting a modular home Green Certified.

• Option 1 – An accredited verifier visits the factory during the module construction process. To fully inspect the home, the verifier likely will have to make multiple trips to the factory in this scenario because it is typically not possible to see all the modules at the proper stage of construction in one visit. The final inspection is then done at the site after the home has been set on its foundation and completed. Following this process, the verifier would use the typical Verification Report and scheduling process as for any verification.

• Option 2 – The builder works with a modular producer participating in Home Innovation’s Modular Green Approved program. When the participating producer’s factory representative and third-party agency/verifier have signed the Modular Verification Report that includes points for practices requiring factory inspection, the modular producer provides the completed report to the site builder. The site builder then retains a local accredited verifier to complete the final inspection using that Modular Verification Report. The verifier should follow the normal process of notifying Home Innovation of the final inspection and submitting the final Verification Report

If hired to conduct a final inspection on a Modular Green Approved home, you’ll notice the Modular Verification Report contains two columns – one for points awarded in the factory, one for points awarded at the final site inspection. One cell is shaded for each line item; unshaded cells show where points are typically awarded. If points are awarded in the shaded cells, an explanation must be included in the Notes column. Both the site builder and the verifier must sign off on the final inspection portion of the form, and the report should be submitted as any other report would be. If hired to conduct a final inspection for a modular home the verifier will likely need to make a brief site inspection before the house is set on the permanent foundation in order to verify points claimed for lot design and other claimed practices that will not be obvious once the house is set.

MULTIFAMILY BUILIDINGS Multi-unit buildings are buildings such as condo and apartment buildings where one dwelling unit is on top of another and usually a common entry is shared. Townhouses, row houses, and duplexes are not considered multi-unit buildings – they must be inspected and certified individually. All buildings must be permitted as multifamily to be certified as such.

Multifamily buildings are certified in essentially the same manner as single family homes. Depending on the scope/scale of the multifamily building it may be necessary to conduct the inspections in several stages. Verifiers should work closely with the builder to be sure each building and each unit is appropriately inspected. For example, some buildings will have the drywall going up in some units before others are ready for the rough inspection. In that case, the rough inspection will need to be done in several parts. When inspections are done in parts, please only submit one inspection report for each building (one for rough and one for final). Please notify Home Innovation when the first part of the rough and when the first part of the final inspection is to be done. Please submit each inspection report only when it has been completed for the entire building (all units). Remember, each unit is required to meet all the practices for which points are approved. If one unit does not meet the practice, then the entire building is not eligible for meeting that practice. Therefore, it is important to look at each unit.



The following is guidance for verifying multifamily building. The basic principle is that the verifier must be confident that every unit as well as any common area meet each mandatory practice as well as any optional practice for which the building receives points. Sampling is only allowed as discussed below and for practices in 703.1.5, 703.3.4, 704.5.1, and 704.5.2. A verifier is not required to use sampling or they may utilize a more frequent sampling than discussed below.

Every unit must be inspected to determine that the insulation installation is better than grade 3. The installation in every unit does not need to be graded but the verifier must do a quick visual inspection to make sure it is not obviously grade 3.

When sampling is done it must be limited only to one building (i.e., sample population may not cover more than one building). The building must have at least 7 units of each basic floor plan (e.g., 1 bed room, 2 bedroom, 2 bedroom with den, etc). The ENERGY STAR or RESNET sampling protocol should be used. The resulting sampled units should represent a 15% sampling of each floor plan type. This sampling protocol may be used for any practice in this VRG where sampling is permitted.

Common areas may not be sampled and must be 100% verified.

701.4.3.1 The building thermal envelope may be verified either by a blower door test or visual inspection. If testing is done on the units it is acceptable to either test or visually inspect the common areas. Blower door testing on the sampled units should follow ENERGY STAR multifamily protocol. The blower door test result for 701.4.3.2 and 703.1.5 should be the highest ACH50 value of any tested units. With regard to 902.2, the practice becomes mandatory based on the lowest ACH50 that is measured. The verifier should also consider the variation of the test results and when the variability indicates that more frequent sampling is warranted then it should be implemented.

When the Performance Path is chosen for a multifamily building, the following approach should be used:

An energy professional should make a judgment as to which units of each floor plan type will use the most energy (e.g., top floor corner unit). These highest energy using units of each floor plan type should be modeled to determine the percent improvement above the 2009 IECC and including equipment, lighting and appliance efficiencies (comparing to federal minimum equipment efficiencies and RESNET default lighting and appliance efficiencies). The common area must also be modeled unless the common space is limited and the common space utilizes all the same construction elements (e.g., wall R-value, fenestration, etc.) and the HVAC equipment efficiencies as in the construction of the units. The least improvement over the 2009 IECC for either a unit or the common area will determine the points for the building. When a building has a central HVAC system the efficiency of the entire building may be modeled for comparison to the 2009 IECC or the highest energy use units may be modeled using the central system’s efficiency. For multi-unit buildings that have central HVAC systems and it is not practical to evaluate the comparison on a worst case unit basis or if the building has substantial common areas, a whole building analysis may be done based on the 2009 IECC. For high rise buildings that are covered in Chapter 5 of the 2009 IECC, an alternative compliance path for the IECC is ASHRAE 90.1 and this approach may be used for section 702. If ASHRAE 90.1 is used please add a note of explanation indicating this approach was used. When blower door and duct leakage testing is done to support the modeling, it should be done on the identified worst case units. If the modeling results of any of the selected highest energy usage units are close to the point threshold, modeling additional units should be considered to be sure all units will meet the criteria for which points are being awarded.



When multifamily buildings have common space (e.g., hallways, fitness rooms) the practices appropriate to these spaces must also be met in these spaces if the units were awarded points for the practices. The common spaces must also comply with any applicable mandatory practice. For example, if points are awarded for low flow toilets in the units, then any common area bathroom must also have low flow toilets. If there is no common space bathroom, then the low flow toilet practice is not applicable to the common space.

When multifamily buildings have mixed use (e.g., retail) these spaces are not required to meet optional practices.

For multifamily buildings where the building owner (e.g., it will be rental property) specifies specific finish items (e.g., ceiling fans, appliances, lighting, etc.) for the entire building, evidence such as purchase orders/delivery tickets for such items in sufficient quantity can be accepted in lieu of actually inspecting each unit for these items. However, the verifier should spot check a sufficient number of units to be confident that all units comply. In a building where the occupant (e.g., condos for sale) has options to choose from, then each unit should be inspected to make sure each unit has, for example, an ENERGY STAR refrigerator when points are needed for that practice.

Be sure the builder’s superintendent understands how critical meeting the design specs is to ultimately attaining NGBS certification. For example, if the wrong windows get ordered and installed, or if they change the paint to something that no longer meets the VOC specifications required in the practices, the entire certification can be in jeopardy. Be alert for these types of substitutions that, while common and reasonable under normal circumstances, can result in a costly mistake for buildings seeking green certification. Also be sure the superintendent is aware that rough inspection(s) need to be scheduled with you – some multi-unit construction proceeds rapidly and it is critical that the rough inspections of any units are not missed along the way.

The verifier should use their judgment to determine how closely each unit should be inspected but each unit should be visited during both the rough and final inspections. When signing off on the verification report, the Verifier is expected to be confident that each unit in the building met the green practice criteria for any points that were approved.

Multifamily buildings are certified as a building and not as individual units. Home Innovation will make available (when requested by the builder upon signing the final inspection report) multiple copies of the certificate so each unit owner can get one, but each certificate will reference only the building and not the unit number. In multifamily projects that have multiple buildings, each building must be verified and certified separately.

GREEN APPROVED PRODUCTS Some manufacturers have applied to have their products pre-approved for points toward having a building certified as green. Home Innovation has authorized the use of Home Innovation’s Green Approved mark on these products. Home Innovation has also issued certificates for these products that details which practices these products are pre-approved for points. The certificates also detail any additional conditions of use in order for the points to be approved for a specific building. The product and the certificate information can also be found at www.greenapprovedproducts.com. If the Builder presents a copy of the Green Approved certificate in lieu of other documentation, Verifiers should accept that documentation as sufficient and approve points consistent with the additional conditions on the certificate. (In April 2013 this site will move to www.homeinnvoation.com/greenproducts.)



Builders Challenge & DOE Challenge Home

The 2008 NGBS certification provided an option to simultaneously earn the DOE Builder’s Challenge certification. DOE is no longer offering Builder’s Challenge and thus it is no longer available via NGBS certification. The new DOE Challenge home does not align conveniently with the 2012 NGBS and therefore there is no option of earning this certification as part of the NGBS certification. Builders interested in the option should work directly with an Energy Star rater.



CERTIFICATION PROCESS

The flow chart below outlines the process and responsibilities of the Builder, the Verifier, and Home Innovation in certifying buildings.

BUILDER VERIFIERHOME INNOVATION RESEARCH LABS

Score Project with Green Scoring Spreadsheet

Builder ReceivesGreen Certificate

Meet with Builder

Conduct Final Inspection:Verify Points;

Confirm Certification Level; Verifier & Builder Signature

Review rough Verification Report from Verifier

Review Final Verification Report

Schedule Verifier for Rough Inspection

(pre-drywall)

SendBuilder Application Packet

to New Builder

Assemble Documentationfor Verifier and Attend

Rough inspection

Notify Home Innovationof Scheduled

Rough Inspection

Schedule Verifier forFinal Inspection

Notify Home Innovationof Scheduled

Final Inspection

Select Accredited Verifier HomeInnovation.com/green

SendPayment Notice

to Builder

Complete Final Verification Report;

Email Report (include Excel Report, photos,

& signatures);Keep Records

Attend inspection & Sign Final Verification Report

Home InnovationIssues Green Certificate; Notifies Builder & Verifier

Conduct Rough Inspection:Verify Points;Email Report

(include Excel Report, photos,& signatures)

COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION

BEGIN CONSTRUCTION

GET MARKETING MATERIALS

Register Project

New BuilderComplete & Return Builder

Application Packet



LOT DESIGN, PREPARATION, AND DEVELOPMENT Note: Many of the Chapter 5 practices have additional text in red to provide further guidance in how this practice should be interpreted and verified. This text is not part of the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standard™ but provided for clarification.

REQUIREMENT

DOCUMENTATION TO BE AVAILABLE TO VERIFIER INSTRUCTIONS TO VERIFIER

501.

1 501.1 Lot . The lot is selected to minimize environmental impact by one or more of the following:

(1) A lot is selected within a site certified to this Standard or equivalent. (2) An infill lot is selected. (3) An infill lot is selected that is a greyfield. (4) An EPA-recognized brownfield lot is selected. (5) A lot with an average slope calculation of less than 15% is selected.

501.1

(1) REQUIRED: Certificate of Certification for Land Development.

(1) Verify that site has been NGBS certified.

(2) None. (2) Verify by inspection that the lot is adjacent to previously land that has been developed for at least 5 years.

(3) REQUIRED: Evidence that the site was a previously developed site with abandoned or underutilized structures,

(3) Verify by document review.

(4) REQUIRED: Evidence that the site is a recognized brownfield.

(4) Verify by document review.

(5) Engineer or surveyor’s calculation of average slope. (5) Verify by observation if compliance is obvious; otherwise by document review.

Question: Can points be awarded for more than one of these sub practices?

Answer: Yes. A lot may get points for all of the sub-practices if it qualifies

501.

2 501.2 Multi -modal transportation . A range of multi-modal transportation choices are promoted by one or more of the following:

(1) A lot is selected within one-half mile (805 m) of pedestrian access to a mass transit system or within five miles (8046 m) of a mass transit station with provisions for parking. Distance is based walking or driving from the lot and not from the community entrance.

(2) Walkways, street crossings, and entrances designed to promote pedestrian activity are provided. New buildings are connected to existing sidewalks and areas of development. Infrastructure in the community should be considered applicable to this practice.

(3) A lot is selected within one-half mile (805 m) of six or more community resources [e.g., recreational facilities (such as pools, tennis courts, basketball courts), parks, grocery store, post office, place of worship, community center, daycare center, bank, school, restaurant, medical/dental office, laundromat/dry cleaner].

(4) Bicycle use is promoted by building on a lot located within a community that has rights-of-way specifically dedicated to bicycle use in the form of paved paths or bicycle lanes or on an infill lot located within 1/2 mile of a bicycle lane designated by the jurisdiction.

501.2

(1) Map showing location of transportation relative to the building.

(1) Verify location is close to transportation.

(2) None. (2) Verify pedestrian activity is encouraged by observation of existing or locally committed pathways, street crossings, or sidewalks. Approve 3 points.

(3) Map or approved site plan showing location of committed community resources relative to building.

(3) Verify at least six community resources (existing now or to be completed within one year) are within 0.5 miles. To get credit for this practice, community resources should be such that they would be frequented regularly by the residents and they should meet a specific repeating need. Therefore a Walmart or Target that included a bank and groceries would be appropriate to count as 3 resources (a grocery store, a bank, and a department store). It would not be appropriate to give credit for each department in the store (e.g. electronics, sports, clothing, optometrist, etc) as these would not typically be visited as regularly by the



REQUIREMENT


residents as a bank or grocery store. A home improvement store would count only as one resource. Multiple establishments of the same type can only be counted once. So a community with 3 restaurants can only count one of them. A bar that served meals would only count a one resource. Establishments that have one major purpose and one or several minor auxiliary purposes should be counted only for the major purpose. Therefore a gasoline station that has an ice cream bar would only count as one resource.

(4) None (4) Verify by inspection.

502.

1 502.1 Project team, mission statement, and goals . A knowledgeable team is established and team member roles are identified with respect to green lot design, preparation, and development. The project’s green goals and objectives are written into a mission statement. For lots without any environmentally sensitive areas, if the developer had a team established for this purpose with identified roles and a written goals, objective, and mission statement and the covenants for homes built in the community support the mission, these points may be awarded to the home.

502.1

REQUIRED: Written project mission statement, goals, and specific team member roles identified.

Verify mission statement includes goals and team member roles. When applicable, it must be subdivision or lot specific. The mission statement may include other green objectives such as energy but it must include lot design objectives.

503.

1 503.1 Natural resources . Natural resources are conserved by one or more of the following:

(1) A natural resources inventory is completed under the direction of a qualified professional.

(2) A plan is implemented to conserve the elements identified by the resource inventory as high-priority resources. Examples of high priority resources include trees, waterways, snags, micro-habitats, etc.

(3) Items listed for protection in the resource inventory plan are protected under the direction of a qualified professional. This applies to high priority resources.

(4) Basic training in tree or other natural resource protection is provided for the on-site supervisor.

(5) All tree pruning on-site is conducted by a Certified Arborist.

(6) Ongoing maintenance of vegetation on the lot during construction is in accordance with TCIA A300 or locally accepted best practices.

(7) Where a lot adjoins a landscaped common area, a protection plan from construction activities next to the common area is implemented.

Both a plan and implementation is required before awarding these points.

503.1

Lot specific information for:

(1) REQUIRED: Natural resource inventory signed by qualified professional.

(1) Verify by documentation review.

(2) REQUIRED: Written conservation plan. (2) Verify by documentation review and observation of plan implementation. There must be high priority resources on the lot or in the development for these points.

(3) Statement from professional that he/she directed plan implementation.

(3) Verify by documentation and observation of that plan has been implemented.

(4) Evidence of site supervisor training (4) Verify by documentation review of builder’s standard written training program, training certificate, or interview of site supervisor that summarizes his/her training.

(5) Invoice or other evidence from Certified Arborist. (5) Verify by documentation review.

(6) Statement from professional that maintenance of vegetation during construction complies.

(6) Verify by documentation review and observation of proper vegetation maintenance.

(7) Written conservation plan. (7) Verify by documentation review and observation.



REQUIREMENT


Question: Are there any training programs that already exist that would meet the requirement for (4) basic training natural resource protection for the on-site supervisor?

Answer: The Home Innovation does not have a list of specific training programs that would qualify. Any class conducted by a recognized authority on the subject should be acceptable. Although the standard does not give any requirement for length of class, 4 hours would be a minimum and 8 hours would be better.

Question: Would someone with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture be a qualifying person?

Answer: A qualified professional is someone who has the proper training and experience to make the evaluation and who does that type of work as part of their normal professional activities. It seems reasonable that a person with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture would have the training to complete the inventory referenced in 502.1(1). But the person would also need to be providing this type of service as part of their regular work.

Question: Is a natural resource inventory required for each individual lot when an inventory was done for the entire development?

Answer: For lots without any environmentally sensitive areas, if the developer conducted a natural resource inventory, and that information is made available to the builder, then these points may be awarded based on the development’s natural resource inventory.

Question: Is a separate plan to conserve high priority resources required for each lot?

Answer: For lots without any environmentally sensitive areas, if the developer or the builder conducted a natural resource inventory and the developer implemented a plan to conserve high priority resources; these points are available to the builder provided the builder does not do anything on the lot that violates the community plan. If there are environmentally sensitive areas on the lot then a lot specific plan is needed.

Question: Are the points for this practice available if it was met on the development level but the lot does not have any high priority resources?

Answer: When the lot has no high priority resources on the lot itself, if during the construction of the development, the developer met this practice for the entire community, these points may be awarded

Question: Are these points appropriate if there are no trees on the lot but the supervisor has had the appropriate training?

Answer: If the lot supervisor has had this training and there are trees or other natural resources on or adjacent to the lot in such a way that the construction on the lot would potentially harm them, then these points are applicable.

Question: The lot itself does not have any trees but there are a number of trees in the development and the builder/developer did have a certified arborist prune the trees throughout the development, can these points be awarded for the lot?

Answer: Yes, the points for the lot are appropriate in this situation.

Question: The developer maintained the vegetation of the commons areas of the community following TCIA A300. Are these points available for the lot?

Answer: No. The vegetation on the lot itself must be maintained per TCIA A300 in order to earn these points.

Question: What is a natural resources inventory look like? Answer: There is no specific format required for the natural resources inventory but it should be more than the typical site plan. The inventory should take into consideration what natural resources were there before construction begins. The 2008 NGBS Commentary says “A natural resources inventory should be completed to identify the site’s environmental attributes. A builder can identify high-priority resources for conservation (e.g. trees, waterways, snags, micro-habitats)...” Whoever conducts the inventory should be able to discern invasive for regionally appropriate vegetation, understand how to site a house to take advantage of solar energy, be able to identify areas important to wildlife habitat, and understand natural features can be used in managing storm water on-site.” So the document the Verifier looks at should hit most of these points.



REQUIREMENT


503.

2 503.2 Slope disturbance. Slope disturbance is minimized by one or more of the following:

(1) The use of terrain adaptive architecture including terracing, retaining walls, landscaping, or other restabilization techniques.

(2) Hydrological/soil stability study is completed and used to guide the design of all buildings on the lot.

(3) All or a percentage of driveways and parking are aligned with natural topography to reduce cut and fill.

(a) 10 percent to 25 percent (b) 25 percent to 75 percent (c) greater than 75 percent

(4) Long-term erosion effects are reduced through the design and implementation of terracing, retaining walls, landscaping, or restabilization techniques.

(5) Underground parking uses the natural slope for parking entrances.

In order to receive points the lot must have enough of a slope that these practices actually contribute to reducing the impact both short and long term. For example, a retaining wall must not just be for decorative purposes and driveways on flat lots do not get points for alignment.

503.2

(1) None (1) Verify inspection.

(2) REQUIRED: Hydrological study report applicable to the lot and statement that the intent of the requirement has been met.


(3) Report from qualified professional indicating the percent alignment.


(4) Report from qualified professional stating intent of the requirement has been met.


(5) None. (5) Verify by inspection.

Question: Is there another standard other than the 14 days for multifamily? In multifamily, 14 day EPA is not attainable.

Answer: Focus on the intent – does the builder make a reasonable effort to re-stabilize the soil within a short time? A builder that builds 20 MF buildings over a 3 year period all at the same time and leaves the 100% of the soil open to erosion for the whole period is not making a reasonable effort. The EPA 14 day rule would be the other end of the spectrum of reasonableness. It is expected that the multifamily builder will be somewhere in the middle. Does the builder have a schedule that minimizes the amount of time the soil is open to erosion or not? Does the builder adhere to the schedule? Make a judgment call but do not accept ignoring the importance of re-stabilizing the soil to prevent or minimize erosion.

503.

3 503.3 Soil disturbance and erosion . Soil disturbance and erosion are minimized by one or more of the following: (also see Section 504.3)

(1) Construction activities are scheduled to minimize length of time that soils are exposed. Un-stabilized soil exposure should be limited to 14 days or less.

(2) At least 75% of total length of the utilities on the lot are designed to use one or more alternative means:

(a) tunneling instead of trenching (b) use of smaller (low ground pressure) equipment or geomats to spread the weight of

construction equipment (c) shared utility trenches or easements (d) placement of utilities under paved surfaces instead of yards Utilities under community roadways do not count.

(3) Limits of clearing and grading are demarcated on the lot plan.

503.3



REQUIREMENT


(1) Construction schedule. (1) Verify that schedule limited soil exposure to 14 day EPA guideline or less. Verify by observation that the state of the lot is consistent with the schedule.

(2) Plans & scopes of work showing alternative means used. (2) Verify by documentation review and by observation to the extent possible.

(3) Plans showing grading & clearing limits. (3) Verify by observation that clearing & grading involve only areas shown on plan.

503.

4 503.4 Stormwater management . Stormwater management includes one or more of the following low-impact development techniques:

(For lots in a development, the points for items (1 ), (2), and (3) may be awarded for the lot when there is a community stormwater management plan imp lemented and the builder does not violate that plan with respect to water leaving the lot.)

(1) Natural water and drainage features are preserved and used.

(2) Facilities that minimize concentrated flows and simulate flows found in natural hydrology by the use of vegetative swales, french drains, wetlands, drywells, rain gardens, or similar infiltration features.

(3) All or a percentage of impervious surfaces are minimized and permeable materials are used for driveways, parking areas, walkways, and patios.

(a) less than 25 percent (b) 25 percent to 75 percent (c) greater than 75 percent

(4) A minimum of 50 percent of the roof is vegetated (green roof) using technology capable of withstanding the climate conditions of the jurisdiction and the microclimate conditions of the building lot. Invasive plant species are not permitted.

(5) Stormwater management practices manage rainfall on the lot and prevent the off-lot discharge from all storms up to and including the volume of the 95th percentile storm event.

(6) A hydrologic analysis is conducted that results in the design of a stormwater management system that maintains the pre-development (i.e., stable, natural) runoff hydrology of the lot throughout the development or redevelopment process. Post-construction runoff rate, volume, and duration cannot exceed predevelopment rates.

503.4

(1) Photos or other document showing water & natural drainage prior to development.

(1) Verify by observation that these features have been preserved and used.

(2) Plans showing features to minimize concentrated flows. (2) Verify by observation that the plan has been implemented.

(3) Calculation showing % of hardscape surface covered with permeable materials.

(3) Verify by observation the claimed percentage has been implemented. No points for less than 5% permeable surfaces.

(4) None (4) Verify by observation.

(5) Engineer’s report showing 95% event will not result in rainwater leaving the lot.

(5) Verify by documentation review. Inspect that the plan was implemented as designed.

(6) REQUIRED: Hydrologic study report verifying the intent of the requirement has been met.

(6) Verify by documentation review. Inspect that the plan was implemented as designed.

Question: Does a community that has swales which lead to a “dry” pond & no curb and gutter and the general topography of the region is flat and sandy, so there is no natural topography to follow (the site had been a corn field) qualify for points in (2)?

Answer: The intent of this practice is to encourage infiltration and reduce rapid run off. A vegetative swale leading to a dry pond sounds like it would meet the criteria. When the NGBS gives several examples of options, unless it explicitly states that all must be used, then following one of them is enough. As with any practice Verifiers should be comfortable that the implementation contributes to meeting the intent in more than a minimal manner.



REQUIREMENT


503.

5 503.5 Landscape plan. A landscape plan for the lot is developed to limit water and energy use while preserving or enhancing the natural environment.

(Where “front” only or “rear” only plan is implemen ted, only half of the points (rounding down to a whole number) are awarded for Items (1)-(6) The plan must be specific to the lot.

(1) Where a lot is less than 50 percent turf, a plan is formulated to restore or enhance natural vegetation that is cleared during construction. Landscaping is phased to coincide with achievement of final grades to ensure denuded areas are quickly vegetated.

(2) Turf grass species, other vegetation, and trees that are native or regionally appropriate for local growing conditions are selected and specified on the lot plan. This info should be on the plan.

(3) The percentage of turf areas that is designed to be mowed is limited and shown on the lot plan. The percentage is based on the landscaped area of the lot not including the home footprint, hardscape, and any undisturbed natural areas. Turf is any type of grass that will be mowed.

(a) 0 percent or EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool is used to determine the maximum percentage of turf areas

(b) greater than 0 percent to less than 20 percent (c) 20 percent to less than 40 percent (d) 40 percent to 60 percent

(4) Plants with similar watering needs are grouped (hydrozoning) and shown on the lot plan. This practice applies to plants on the lot and the plan should show the hydrozoning.

(5) Summer shading by planting installed to shade a minimum of 30 percent of building walls. To conform to summer shading, the effective shade coverage (five years after planting) is the arithmetic mean of the shade coverage calculated at 10 am for eastward facing walls, noon for southward facing walls, and 3 pm for westward facing walls on the summer solstice.

(6) Vegetative wind breaks or channels are designed to protect the lot and immediate surrounding lots as appropriate for local conditions. The wind breaks are intended to protect the lot.

(7) Site or community generated tree trimmings or stump grinding of regionally appropriate trees are used on the lot to provide protective mulch during construction or for landscaping.

(8) An integrated pest management plan is developed to minimize chemical use in pesticides and fertilizers.

503.5

REQUIRED: (for any of these sub practices): Lot specific plan and information:

There must be a landscape plan including the item for points to be awarded.

(1) Landscape plan showing lot will have at least 50% natural vegetation.

(1) Verify plan has been implemented and vegetation has been restored.

(2) List of regionally appropriate plants. Landscape contractor statement or labels on plants.

(2) Verify by documentation review and observation.

(3) Calculation showing % of lot (minus building footprint & hardscape) that is turf or EPA Budget Tool


(4) Landscape plan by qualified landscape professional showing watering needs.

(4) Verify by documentation review and observation that plan has been implemented.

(5) Landscape plan by qualified landscape professional stating intent of practice will be met.

(5) Verify by documentation review and observation that plan has been implemented

(6) Landscape plan by qualified landscape professional. (6) Verify by observation that plan has been implemented.

(7) PO or invoice for contractor providing onsite recycling. (7) Verify by documentation review and observation.

(8) REQUIRED: Pest management plan. (8) Verify by documentation review and observation.



REQUIREMENT


Question: How are landscaping points approved in a cold climate region when it is not feasible for a builder seeking certification to finish landscaping and exterior finish work prior to closing?

Answer: I f the landscaping points are needed by the builder to achieve the level of certification he/she is seeking, Home Innovation will issue a preliminary National Green Building Certification certificate (with a reasonable expiration date) pending completion of the exterior work. The Verifier will need to visit the site again in the spring to visually verify the work has been completed correctly and submit an updated verification report. Upon receipt of the updated final report, the Home Innovation will actually certify the home and issue a final certificate and assess the builder an additional $30 fee for this special handling. No home with only a preliminary certificate will be eligible to have a photo posted on the website. If the landscaping points are not needed for the certification level desired, the certification can and should be finalized after the original final inspection.

Question : Is a there a minimum percentage for required native turf grass species, other vegetation, and trees?

Answer: Generally when no percentage is specified for a practice or in the Verifier’s Resource Guide, the expectation is that the majority of the area meets the requirement. Typically if 80% met the requirement and in the Verifiers judgment there was justification for the items that did not meet the practice it is acceptable to approve the points.

Question: Are ground covers considered to be turf for this practice?

Answer: Grass & lawn areas would be considered as turf. Other ground cover would not normally be considered turf.

Question: Some of the plants on the landscape plan show up as invasive species for the region even though they are also “regionally appropriate” in that they grow well in our planting zone. Can they still take points for 503.5 (2) for plants that show up on invasive species lists for the area?

Answer: If it is considered an invasive species then it would be inappropriate to award points for the practice.

Question: Which is worth more points – more turf area or less turf area?

Answer: More points are awarded when there is less turf (e.g. no turf = 4 points). The percentage should be based on only the landscaped area of the lot (not including the building footprint).

Question: In a landscape where plants with similar watering needs are grouped are points appropriate for this practice even if there is no irrigation installed?

Answer: The key part of this practice is that a landscape plan is developed which limits water an energy usage. If the plan is properly developed, then the points for hydrozoning are OK even if the plan does not include an irrigation system.

Question: The community has general guidelines regarding landscaping. Is that a sufficient plan for awarding points for the practices in this section?

Answer: No. To earn points in 503.5 the landscape plan must be specific to the lot.

Question: The plan calls for quickly vegetating denuded areas by using sod on most of the lot. Is it appropriate to award points for 503.5(1)?

Answer: No. This practice is focused on restoring natural vegetation. Applying sod to the lot is not restoring natural vegetation. Points for 503.3(1) should not be awarded when more than 50% of the lot is turf.

503.

6 503.6 Wildlife habitat . Measures are planned to support wildlife habitat and include at least two of the following:

(1) Plants and gardens that encourage wildlife, such as bird and butterfly gardens.

(2) Inclusion of a certified “backyard wildlife” program.

(3) The lot is adjacent to a wildlife corridor, fish and game park, or preserved areas and is designed with regard for this relationship.

(4) Outdoor lighting techniques are utilized with regard for wildlife.

The measures to support wildlife habitat should be commensurate with the size and surroundings of the lot. Points are available for lots when community space supports wildlife habitat. The minimum support measures should include at least 2 of the following: area for shelter, natural food source, and natural water source

503.6

Development wide or lot specific wildlife management plan by a qualified professional.

Interview builder superintendent and observe to verify that plan has been implemented. Approve 4 points.



REQUIREMENT


Question: Who is qualified to do a Wildlife management plan? Answer: Unless there are specific requirements in the area, the wildlife management plan is to be done by a qualified professional. A qualified professional is someone who is trained in the specific subject matter and makes some or all of his/her income in that particular subject. For example, in California such a plan has to be completed by a state-licensed person, but Home Innovation does not require any license. The determination is to be made by the Verifier that the person doing the plan is competent and that the resulting plan is appropriate for the local situation.

Question: If the home is on a large (acreage) site and only a small flat section is developed, can the builder take the points without a professional plan? The remaining acres will be left in its natural state.

Answer: The points should not be approved automatically but if in the Verifiers judgment, the intent of the practice has been met the points may be awarded. The Verifier should note that planning is a significant portion of the intent of this practice. The resulting situation should provide at least 2 of the following: area for shelter, natural food source, and natural water source.

Question: On a small site in a developed community what is appropriate in order to earn these points.

Answer: The measures to support wildlife should be commensurate with the size of the lot and its surroundings. The minimum measures should include at least 2 of the following: area for shelter, natural food source, and natural water source. If nearby community common space supports wildlife then these points are appropriate.

503.

7 503.7 Environmentally sensitive areas . The lot is in accordance with one or both of the following:

(1) The lot does not contain any environmentally sensitive areas that are disturbed by the construction. These points are available if the lot does not contain any environmentally sensitive areas or if the lot does contain an environmentally sensitive area and this area is not disturbed by the construction.

(2) Compromised environmentally sensitive areas are mitigated or restored. These points are available only if the lot has a compromised environmentally sensitive area on the lot. These points are not available if the sensitive area is damaged during construction of the building. If the sensitive area is damaged by the developer (and the developer is not the builder) or if the sensitive area is otherwise less than pristine, these points may be awarded if the builder makes significant restoration efforts. Points cannot be claimed for mandatory mitigation or restoration of federally-protected sensitive areas unless the mitigation or restoration is greater than that which was required through the federal permit process.

503.7

None. Verify by observation that the building includes a combination of residential, and commercial or retail. Approve 6 points.

(1) Lot specific plan showing no sensitive areas. (1) Verify site plan does not show any areas within a wetland as defined by federal, state, or local regulations; areas of steep slopes; Prime Farmland as defined by the USDA; areas of critical habitat for any federal or state threatened or endangered species.

(2) Lot specific plan showing original location of sensitive areas. Plan by qualified professional showing appropriate mitigations steps.

(2) Verify by observation that sensitive areas have been restored or mitigation plan followed. If the builder claims points in item 1, no points can be claimed in item 2 for repairing the builder’s own damage.

Question: How are sensitive areas defined? Answer: The Chapter 2 Definitions of the NGBS defines Environmentally Sensitive Area as “Areas within wetlands as defined by federal, state, or local regulations; areas of steep slopes; “Prime Farmland” as defined by the USDA; areas of “critical habitat” for any federal or state threatened or endangered species; or areas defined by state or local jurisdiction as environmentally sensitive.”

Question: Does the lot earn these points if there is no environmentally sensitive area on the lot to avoid?

Answer: These points are available to any lot that does not contain any environmentally sensitive area. These points are also available if the lot contains an environmentally sensitive area but the construction of the building does not disturb this area.

Question: If there is a steep slope in the area that was impacted by the land development, can these points still be awarded?

Answer: This practice relates to sensitive areas on the lot or immediately adjacent to the lot. If the builder was not the developer and the builder did not impact any of the existing steep slope then the points are OK.



REQUIREMENT


504.

1 504.1 On-site supervision and coordination . On-site supervision and coordination is provided during on-the-lot clearing, grading, trenching, paving, and installation of utilities to ensure that specified green development practices are implemented. (also see Section 503.3) This practice applies to activities on the lot.

504.1

List of practices implemented from 503.3. Interview builder’s site supervisor regarding supervision during construction. Observe to the extent possible that adverse environmental impact has been minimized or mitigated during construction. Points cannot be awarded unless points are also awarded in practice 503.3.

504.

2 504.2 Trees and vegetation . Designated trees and vegetation are preserved by one or more of the following:

(1) Fencing or equivalent is installed to protect trees and other vegetation. All designated trees and vegetation on the lot or adjacent to the lot that might be disturbed by the construction must be protected in order to award these points.

(2) Trenching, significant changes in grade, and compaction of soil and critical root zones in all “tree save” areas as shown on the lot plan are avoided. The lot must have at least one tree identified ON THE PLAN for saving and all of the identified trees must be avoided to earn these points.

(3) Damage to designated existing trees and vegetation is mitigated during construction through pruning, root pruning, fertilizing, and watering. Besides evidence that all appropriate measures above have been implemented, the designated trees and vegetation must be healthy on completion of the project. Designated trees are trees existing on the lot before construction began.

504.2

(1) None. (1) Observe fencing/protection in place.

(2) Landscape plan. (2) Observe to the extent possible that critical root zones (under the canopy) have been avoided.

(3) Invoice or other evidence from qualified arborist. (3) Verify by documentation review & observe the trees/vegetation appear healthy at final.

Question: Is this requirement for trees and vegetation within the construction site?

Answer: This applies to any vegetation designated for preservation as part of the plan that may be adversely impacted by the construction. The vegetation should be on the lot or adjacent to the lot such that the vegetation could easily be damaged during construction.

504.

3 504.3 Soil disturbance and erosion implementation . On-site soil disturbance and erosion are minimized by one or more of the following in accordance with the SWPPP or applicable plan: (also see Section 503.3)

504.3

(1) Sediment and erosion controls are installed on the lot and maintained in accordance with the stormwater pollution prevention plan, where required. These controls must be on the lot.

(2) Limits of clearing and grading are staked out on the lot. The lot lines alone are not sufficient for this practice except on small urban lots where the building footprint consumes at least 50% of the lot.

(3) “No disturbance” zones are created using fencing or flagging to protect vegetation and sensitive areas on the lot from construction activity. The no disturbance zone may be adjacent to the lot when the zone is close enough to be impacted by the construction.

(4) Topsoil from either the lot or the site development is stockpiled and stabilized for later use and used to establish landscape plantings on the lot. Stockpiled topsoil can either be from the lot itself or from the construction of the development, but the stockpiled topsoil must be used on the lot for points to be awarded.

(5) Soil compaction from construction equipment is reduced by distributing the weight of the equipment over a larger area (laying lightweight geogrids, mulch, chipped wood, plywood, OSB, metal plates, or other materials capable of weight distribution in the pathway of the equipment). This must be done for all heavy equipment used on the lot throughout the construction process.

(6) Disturbed areas on the lot that are complete or to be left unworked for 21 days or more are stabilized within 14 days using methods as recommended by the EPA or in the approved SWPPP, where required. This practice applies to the lot.



REQUIREMENT


(7) Soil is improved with organic amendments or mulch. The amount of amendments should be consistent with good landscape practice. A soil analysis or landscape professional would typically be required to identify the most appropriate amendments. Amendments or mulch should be applied to at least 50% of the landscaped area.

(8) Utilities on the lot are installed using one or more alternative means (e.g., tunneling instead of trenching, use of smaller equipment, use of low ground pressure equipment, use of geomats, shared utility trenches or easements). When awarding points for tunneling at least 50% of the utilities must be installed with tunneling to earn these points. At least 75% of the utilities must be installed with low ground pressure equipment for these points. When awarding points for shared trenches or easements, at least three utilities must be in one trench or two utilities in each of two trenches or all utilities use the same easement.

(9) Inspection reports of stormwater best management practices are available (1) Storm water pollution prevention plan. (1) Verify by observation and documentation review.

(2) None. (2) Verify by observation.



(5) None. (5) Verify by observation to the extent possible. Interview the site supervisor for additional confirmation.

(6) As-built construction schedule. (6) Verify by documentation review and observation to the extent possible. Interview the site supervisor for additional confirmation.

(7) Invoice or evidence from landscape contractor. (7) Verify by documentation review and observation.

(8) Plans and scope of work showing alternative means used. (8) Verify by observation to the extent possible. Interview the site supervisor for additional confirmation.

(9) Inspection reports. (9) Verify by documentation review.

Question: Does using any of the soil compaction mitigation approaches earn the points or do several of the techniques need to be used?

Answer: Any technique is sufficient but at least one technique must be used any time heavy equipment is on site.

505.

1 505.1 Driveways and parking areas . Driveways and parking areas are minimized by one or more of the following:

(1) Off-street parking areas are shared or driveways are shared. Waivers or variances from local development regulations are obtained to implement such practices, if required. A shared driveway must be shared at least for 50% of its length.

(2) In a multi-unit project, parking capacity does not exceed the local minimum requirements.

(3) Structured parking is utilized to reduce the footprint of surface parking areas.

(a) 25 percent to less than 50 percent (b) 50 percent to 75 percent (c) greater than 75 percent

505.1


(2) Document with local regulations (2) Verify by document review and observation.


505.

2 505.2 Heat island mitigation . Heat island effect is mitigated by one or both of the following.

505.2

(1) Hardscape: Not less than 50 percent of the surface area of the hardscape on the lot meets one or a combination of the following methods. This practice applies to strategies implemented on the lot.

(a) Shading of hardscaping: Shade is provided from existing or new vegetation (within five years) or from trellises. Shade of hardscaping is to be measured on the summer solstice at noon.

(b) Light-colored hardscaping: Horizontal hardscaping materials are installed with a solar reflectance index (SRI) of 29 or greater. The SRI is calculated in accordance with ASTM E1980. A default SRI value of 35 for new concrete without added color pigment is permitted to be used instead of measurements.

(c) Permeable hardscaping: Permeable hardscaping materials are installed.



REQUIREMENT


(2) Roofs: Not less than 75 percent of the exposed surface of the roof is in accordance with one or a combination of the following methods.

(a) Minimum initial SRI of 78 for a low-sloped roof (a slope less than or equal to 2:12) and a minimum initial SRI of 29 for a steep-sloped roof (a slope of more than 2:12). The SRI is calculated in accordance with ASTM E1980. Roof products are certified and labeled.

(3) Roof is vegetated using technology capable of withstanding the climate conditions of the jurisdiction and the microclimate conditions of the building lot. Invasive plant species are not permitted.

(1) Calculation showing percent of hardscape included in heat island minimization. Manufacture’s literature with SRI data.


(2) Manufacture’s literature with SRI data. (3) Verify by documentation review and observation.

Question: If the building has an exterior lanai completely covered by the roof and the side cement walkways are covered by eave overhangs, does that count or must the shading be from Trees, trellises, etc.

Answer: The intent is to reduce the amount of heat absorb by the hardscape. If the hardscape is covered by a structure that is absorbing the heat then the intent of the practices is not being met. If the roof/eve structures are such that most of the heat will be reflected then the intent of the practice is being met and the points are appropriate.

505.

3 505.3 Density . The average density on the lot on a net developable area basis is:

(1) 7 to less than 14 dwelling units per acre (per 4,047 m2) (2) 14 to less than 21 dwelling units per acre (per 4,047 m2) (3) 21 or greater dwelling units per acre (per 4,047 m2)

505.3

Calculation of number of units divided by lot size for the building.

Verify by documentation review. Enter lot size into the verification notes column. Calculation is based on the size of the lot and not the density of the surrounding community.

Question: On an infill lot can the density practice be met based on the density of the neighborhood?

Answer: For a building, the density should be based on the net-developable area of the lot that the home is on and not the surrounding neighborhood. A building should not get points if it is on a large lot but in a high density area. Maximum lot sizes for a detached home are: 7 to 14 units/acre: 6222 sq. ft. 14-21 units/acre: 3111 sq. ft. 21+ units/acre: 2079 sq. ft.

Question: When calculating density, does net developable area of the lot include utility and municipal easements and setbacks?

Answer: Municipal setbacks should not be deducted from the net developable area calculation for a lot. Utility easements for utilities that serve multiple lots may be deducted in the calculation.

505.

4 505.4 Mixed -use development . The lot contains a mixed-use building. These points are intended for buildings that contain mixed use in the building. The points for a mixed use community are awarded in 501.2(3).

505.4

None. Verify by observation that the building includes a combination of residential, and commercial or retail.

505.

5 505.5 Community garden(s) . A portion of the lot is established as a community garden(s), available to residents of the lot, to provide for local food production to residents or area consumers.

505.5

None Verify by observation that there is a community garden on the lot for this building. For multiple building multi-family projects the garden can be on common space.


RESOURCE EFFICIENCY This chapter often refers to “major” and “minor” co mponents. The following items are defined as “major ”:

All structural members and structural systems are major components. Any building material applied over 50% of the surface of the foundation, wall, floor, ceiling, or roof assemblies are also major components. Examples of major components included footings, foundation/crawlspace, slab, slab base, floor system structure, exterior wall system structure, interior wall system structure (including partitions), roof structure, floor decking, exterior wall sheathing, roof sheathing, exterior wall coverings/cladding (e.g., siding, masonry veneer, stucco, and so forth for 50% or more of the wall area not including fenestration area), exterior roof coverings, interior wall claddings (e.g., drywall, paneling, and so forth), finished flooring (e.g., carpeting, hardwood, ceramic, and so forth for more than 50% of floor area), wall insulation, and attic insulation.

The following items are considered as “minor”: Any building material or system that does not qualify as a major component may be a minor component. Examples include doors interior, doors exterior, trim exterior, trim interior, rails/guards interior, rails/guards exterior, exterior decking, HVAC equipment, water heater, Appliances combined (e.g., refrigerator, range, dishwasher, prebuilt fireplaces), exterior wall coverings/cladding (e.g., siding, masonry veneer, stucco, and so forth for less than 50% of the wall area not including fenestration area), ductwork, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, plumbing pipe, electrical fixtures, electrical wire/cable, carpet or other finished flooring backing materials (e.g., carpet padding and so forth), finished flooring for less than 50% of floor area, driveway finished, driveway base, lead walk, and lead walk base. To qualify for components such as electrical fixtures, all electrical fixtures need to comply rather than just one fixture. The above items are general descriptions for what w ould typically be considered either a major or mino r item. The lists are not intended to be absolutes. The Verifier should u se this info as guidance and approve points for oth er components based on the specific situation at hand. Do not awa rd points for minor components when the component i s not substantial or significant enough to be consistent with the min or component examples above.

REQUIREMENT


601.

1 601.1 Conditioned floor area . Finished floor area of a dwelling unit is limited. Finished floor area is calculated in accordance with NAHBRC Z765. Only the finished floor area for stories above grade plane is included in the calculation.

(1) less than or equal to 1,000 square feet (93 m2) (2) less than or equal to 1,500 square feet (139 m2) (3) less than or equal to 2,000 square feet (186 m2) (4) less than or equal to 2,500 square feet (232 m2) (5) greater than 4,000 square feet (372 m2)

(For every 100 square feet (9.29 m 2) over 4,000 square feet (372 m 2), one point is to be added to rating level points shown in Table 303, Category 7 for each rating level.)

Multi-Unit Building Note: For a multi-unit building, a weighted average of the individual unit sizes is used for this practice.

601.1

Plans or other document by architect or designer showing square footage calculation per ANSI Z765 for all finished floor area above grade. Calculation showing weighted average unit size for multi-family buildings.

Verify by documentation review that the points are per square footage. The finished area to be counted is only area of “stories above grade plane.” The IRC defines “Story above grade” A basement counts as an above grade story only if one of the following is true:

1) the finished floor over the basement is more than 6 feet above the grade plane

2) the finished floor over the basement is more than 6 feet above ground level for more than 50% of the building perimeter.

3) the finished floor over the basement is more than 12 feet above the finished ground at any point.

A typical basement will not count and most walkout basements will also not count in the 601.1 square footage Enter the actual above grade square footage into the Verification Report.

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


601.

2 601.2 Material usage . Structural systems are designed or construction techniques are implemented that reduce and optimize material usage.

(1) Minimum structural member or element sizes necessary for strength and stiffness in accordance with advanced framing techniques or structural design standards are selected.

(2) Higher-grade or higher-strength of the same materials than commonly specified for structural elements and components in the building are used and element or component sizes are reduced accordingly.

(3) Performance-based structural design is used to optimize lateral force-resisting systems.

601.2

(1) Engineer’s statement that the intent of the practice has been met.

(2) Specifications showing higher grade materials.

(3) Engineer’s statement of design report showing performance based design meeting the intent of the practice.

These practices relate to the following primary structural systems: foundation, walls, floors, or roofs. 3 points are available for each system complying with one of the three options provided (with an overall practice maximum of 9 points). This practice is focused on system optimization rather than individual members. 90% of each system must comply.

(1) Member size does not exceed the code minimum prescriptive tables and member spacing is not less than the code minimum prescriptive tables.

(2) Higher grade/higher strength materials are used resulting in member sizes being reduced and/or member spacing being increased.

(3) Lateral bracing requirements are met with design that is consistent with code minimum prescriptive tables or engineers optimized design.

Verify by documentation review and inspection to ensure optimized design has been utilized for 90% of each system where points are claimed.

Question: Do roof trusses automatically qualify for these points?

Answer: No. You must look at the roof system that would typically consist of the trusses plus the roof sheathing. The truss spacing would also affect compliance with this practice. Using trusses spaced closer than needed or using heavier than required roof sheathing would not comply with this practice.

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1.3 601.3 Building dime nsions and layouts . Building dimensions and layouts are designed to reduce

material cuts and waste. This practice is used for a minimum of 80 percent of the following areas:

(1) floor area (2) wall area (3) roof area (4) cladding or siding area (5) penetrations or trim area

601.3

Plans showing dimensions & layouts to minimize material usage and waste.

Verify plans & construction show dimensions evenly divisible by 16, 24 or 48 inches for at least 80% of construction. For points for floor or wall areas use interior dimensions. For roof or cladding area use exterior dimensions. For penetrations or trim use either.

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1.4 601.4 Framing and structural plans . Detailed framing or structural plans, material quantity lists and

on-site cut lists for framing, structural materials, and sheathing materials are provided.

Detailed framing or structural plans, material quan tity lists and on-site cut lists for framing, struc tural materials, and sheathing materials are provided.

601.4

REQUIRED: Framing/structural plans, material and cut lists. Verify plans & lists are on site for use. Approve 4 points.

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


601.

5 601.5 Prefabricated components . Precut or preassembled components, or panelized or precast assemblies are utilized for a minimum of 90 percent for the following system or building:

(1) floor system (2) wall system (3) roof system (4) modular construction for the entire building located above grade (5) manufactured home construction for the entire building located above grade

601.5

(1, 2, 3) None. (1, 2, 3) Verify by observation of roof trusses, double-stud wall panels, or floor joists.

(4, 5) PO and documentation from producer. (4, 5) Verify with documentation review. Award points for either (4) or (5).

Question: There are four points available for each of the following: (1) floor systems, (2) wall systems, (3) roof systems. If a builder utilizes 2 types of panelized wall systems, i.e., Superior Walls foundation system for the basement walls and SIP panels for the walls above grade and the roof system, can 8 points be awarded for the two types of walls systems?

Answer: The builder only gets 4 points for panelized walls regardless of how many different types of panels are used for walls. If the builder uses SIPS for walls and SIPS for the roof then they can get 4 points for walls and 4 points for roof system.

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1.6 601.6 Stacked stories . Stories above grade are stacked, such as in 1½-story, 2-story, or greater

structures. The area of the upper story is a minimum of 50 percent of the area of the story below based on areas with a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet (2,134 mm).

(1) first stacked story (2) for each additional stacked story

601.6

None. Verify by observation at Rough. Ensure upper story is measured with minimum ceiling height of 7 ft. No points for a one story home unless there is a finished basement that qualifies as above grade.

Question: How does a walkout basement affect compliance with this practice. Can a walkout basement count as the base story for this practice?

Answer: Practice 601.6 is based on stories above grade. Chapter 2 of the NGBS has a definition of a “story above grade”. If the walkout basement meets this definition and the majority of the space in the basement is intended as living space then the home can get the points for an extra stacked story.

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1.7 601.7 Site-applied fin ishing materials . Building materials or assemblies listed below that do not

require additional site-applied material for finishing are incorporated in the building.

(a) pigmented, stamped, decorative, or final finish concrete or masonry (b) interior trim not requiring paint or stain (c) exterior trim not requiring paint or stain (d) window, skylight, and door assemblies not requiring paint or stain on one of the following

surfaces: 1111. exterior surfaces ii. interior surfaces

(e) interior wall coverings or systems not requiring paint or stain or other type of finishing application

(f) exterior wall coverings or systems not requiring paint or stain or other type of finishing application

(g) pre-finished hardwood flooring

(1) 90 percent or more of the installed building materials or assemblies listed above: (Points awarded for each type of material or assembly.)

(2) 50 percent to less than 90 percent of the installed building material or assembly listed above: (Points awarded for each type of material or assembly.)

(3) 35 percent to less than 50 percent of the installed building material or assembly listed above: (Points awarded for each type of material or assembly.)

601.7

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


List of materials and manufacture’s literature (unless pre-finished is obvious) that do not get site finished. Note if used at 90%, 50%, or 35% level.

Verify by inspection that products in (a-g) have been used in the claimed amount. Only products listed in (a-g) are eligible. Driveways or unfinished basement slabs do not count as final finish concrete. The amount of product must represent at least 35% of the application (e.g., brick must be 35% of the total wall area to get points).

Question: Do flooring options such as ceramic tile earn points for this practice?

Answer: This section only applies to the items listed in the practice. Ceramic tile is not listed and would not qualify.

Question: Does exterior brick qualify as a material that requires no additional finish for this practice?

Answer: Exterior brick would qualify as a wall covering that requires no additional finish as long as it meets the criteria for greater than 35% area of the external walls (not including doors and windows) and no on-site finish or sealer was applied.

Question: To count as a material that does not require a site applied finish, would the product have to be a product that never requires finishing (such as vinyl or brick) or could it be a prefinished material (such as a pre-finished fiber cement) that may require finishing at some point in the future?

Answer: Yes, as long as the product used is not finished on site as part of the original construction and is not expected to be further finished by the homeowner. Re-painting or re-finishing as part of ongoing maintenance is acceptable. Prefinished materials do not have to be maintenance free.

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1.8 601.8 Foundations. A foundation system that minimizes soil disturbance, excavation quantities, and

material usage, such as frost-protected shallow foundations, isolated pier and pad foundations, deep foundations, post foundations, or helical piles is selected, designed, and constructed. The foundation is used on 50 percent or more of the building footprint.

601.8

Plans showing foundation details. Verify by documentation and inspection to the extent possible that the foundation design to reduce material usage and soil disturbance is implemented.

Question: Do ICF systems qualify, they meet the intent by requiring less concrete than conventional foundations?

Answer: ICFs would qualify if the application results in at least a 15% reduction in the amount of concreter that would be used.

Question: If pier and pad foundations or shallow foundations are typical construction, for the area, can a builder still get points for this practice?

Answer: Yes, the points are awarded for any practice regardless if the practice is common in the area or not.

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1.9 601.9 Above -grade wall systems . One or more of the following above-grade wall systems that

provide sufficient structural and thermal characteristics are used for a minimum of 75 percent of the gross exterior wall area of the building:

(1) adobe (2) concrete and/or masonry (3) logs (4) rammed earth

601.9

None. Verify at least 75% of exterior walls meet the criteria. Brick veneer does not qualify.

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2.1.

1.1 602.1.1.1 A capillary break and vapor retarder are installed at concrete slabs in accordance with ICC

IRC Sections R506.2.2 and R506.2.3 or ICC IBC Sections 1910 and 1805.4.1.

602.1.1.1 Plans/specifications AND scope of work(s) detailing how this mandatory requirement has been met. Photo(s) showing installation. Report from certified professional when the building code exceptions are used.

This practice applies to slabs that adjoin living spaces. Mandatory for certification if applicable. Verify for all slab areas by documentation review or confirm building includes no slabs.

In some situations it is appropriate and reasonable to provide an alternative means of preventing moisture migration thru the slab and into the living space. In such situations, a statement by a licensed professional engineer that the alternative means meets the intent of the practice and will provide an equivalent or more effective approach to preventing moisture migration into the living space is acceptable. The engineer’s assessment needs to consider the specific building, location, and climate and not just be a general statement about a construction type.

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


602.

1.1.

2 602.1.1.2 A capillary break between the footing and the foundation wall is provided to prevent moisture migration into foundation wall.

602.1.1.2 Plans/specifications AND scope of work(s) detailing how this requirement has been met. Photo(s) showing installation.

Verify by documentation review. Inspect to the extent possible.

602.

1.2 602.1.2 Foundation waterproofing . Enhanced foundation waterproofing is installed using one or both

of the following:

(1) rubberized coating, or (2) drainage mat

602.1.2

Plans, specification, or scope of work showing enhanced foundation coating.

Inspect to the extent possible. If it has been covered up, then verify by documentation. Typical asphaltic coatings do not qualify.

Question: A builder is using precast wall foundation system, which is a 5,000 psi concrete and the literature states that it does not leak water. It is sealed at panel seams corners with a sealant, again not to leak water. Is this equivalent to enhanced waterproofing material or drainage mat applied to the outside of the foundation wall?

Answer: The Standard is pretty specific in requiring either a rubberized coating or drainage mat. Unless the manufacturer can demonstrate equivalence beyond marketing literature stating that it will not leak, the points cannot be awarded. If the manufacturer has evidence that the system performs as well as a rubberized coating or a drainage plain, then that would meet the intent of the practice.

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2.1.

3.1 602.1.3.1 Where required by the ICC IRC or IBC for habitable and usable spaces below grade, exterior

drain tile is installed. MANDATORY.

602.1.3.1 Plans showing exterior drain tile for foundation, if applicable. Photo(s) showing installation.

Review plans and photos, observe field installation to the extent possible, interview superintendent when observation is not possible. This practice for exterior drain is mandatory regardless if the local jurisdiction has adopted the IRC code or not. The only exception is for foundations in well-drained soils as per the IRC or if a PE provides a letter stating the foundation drainage system provided for that situation will provide protection equivalent to or better than the 602.1.3.1 prescribed practice. If not applicable, put a note of explanation in the comments area on the signoff page. MANDATORY.

602.

1.3.

2 602.1.3.2 Interior and exterior foundation perimeter drains are installed and sloped to discharge to daylight, dry well, or sump pit.

602.1.3.2 Plans showing exterior drain tile for foundation, if applicable. Review plans and observe daylight, dry well, or sump pit with pump installed.

602.

1.4.

1 602.1.4.1 Vapor retarder in unconditioned vented crawlspace is in accordance with the following, as applicable. Joints of vapor retarder overlap a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) and are taped.

(1) Floors. Minimum 6 mil vapor retarder installed on the crawlspace floor and extended at least 6 inches up the wall and is attached and sealed to the wall.

(2) Walls. Dampproof walls are provided below finished grade. MANDATORY.

602.1.4.1

None. (1) Inspect interior crawlspace walls to verify vapor retarder on ground has tape seams and is affixed to walls

(2) Mandatory for certification. Verify by inspection to the extent possible. If inspection not possible ask for plans/specifications showing damp-proofing.

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2.1.

4.2 602.1.4.2 Crawlspace that is built as a conditioned area is sealed to prevent outside air infiltration and

provided with conditioned air at a rate not less than 0.02 cfm (.009 L/s) per square foot of horizontal area and one of the following is implemented:

(1) a concrete slab over 6 mil polyethylene or polystyrene sheeting lapped a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) and taped or sealed at the seams.

(2) 6 mil polyethylene sheeting, lapped a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm), and taped at the seams. MANDATORY.

602.1.4.2

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


(1) Plans/specifications AND scope of work(s) detailing how this requirement has been met. Photo(s) showing installation.

(1) Verify by inspection and documentation review.


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2.1.

5 602.1.5 Termite barrier. Continuous physical foundation termite barrier used with low toxicity treatment or with no chemical treatment is installed in geographical areas that have subterranean termite infestation potential determined in accordance with Figure 6(3).

602.1.5

None. Verify for installation of continuous physical termite barrier. Typically this is a continuous or overlapped metal or plastic barrier below all framing members. Chemical barriers do not qualify as a physical barrier. No points available in the “none” to “slight” areas of risk per Figure 6(3).

Question: Does termite treated foam board used to insulate the foundation qualify for this practice?

Answer: The intent of this practice is to provide a supplementary layer of protection against termites, in addition to the means required by minimum local codes. The additional layer must be a continuous physical barrier (e.g. metal) that termites cannot penetrate, as opposed to a chemical treatment, and that is designed and installed to prevent termites from entering the structure: The termite treated foam board does not qualify as a physical termite barrier.

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2.1.

6 602.1.6 Termite -resistant materials . In areas of termite infestation probability as defined by Figure 6(3), termite-resistant materials are used as follows:

(1) In areas of slight to moderate termite infestation probability: for the foundation, all structural walls, floors, concealed roof spaces not accessible for inspection, exterior decks, and exterior claddings within the first 2 feet (610 mm) above the top of the foundation.

(2) In areas of moderate to heavy termite infestation probability: for the foundation, all structural walls, floors, concealed roof spaces not accessible for inspection, exterior decks, and exterior claddings within the first 3 feet (914 mm) above the top of the foundation.

(3) In areas of very heavy termite infestation probability: for the foundation, all structural walls, floors, concealed roof spaces not accessible for inspection, exterior decks, and exterior claddings.

602.1.6

None. (1) Verify use of metal, masonry, plastic, or treated lumber as required, and for exterior cladding within 2’ of the ground and all structural walls, floors, and concealed roof spaces

(2) Verify use of metal, masonry, plastic, or treated lumber as required, and for exterior cladding within 3’ of the ground and all structural walls, floors, and concealed roof spaces.

(3) Inspect for use of steel, masonry, or treated lumber, as required, and all structural walls, floors, concealed roof spaces, and exterior cladding.

Question: Can a builder get for this practice if they are in the “very heavy” termite area but only provide termite resistant materials to the 3ft height?

Answer: No. The Standard says that 4 points are available for treating the first 3 feet only in areas with “moderate to heavy” termites. When a home is in the “very heavy” area then all the wall components must be termite resistant and 6 points are earned. There is no in-between.

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Question: Can pressure treated lumber used for exterior decking get points for being termite resistant material? Can thermo-treated wood get these points? The raw material of thermo-treated wood for decking is sourced from one of the NGBS recognized forest certification program, can this be awarded for being certified?

Answer: To get points for termite resistant materials for this practice, not only the deck but all of the structure and cladding for at least 2 feet above the foundation must be termite resistant materials. Depending on the termite infestation probability a larger portion of the structure may need to be termite resistant. If the manufacturer of the thermo treated wood can substantiate that the material is termite resistance it can be used in conjunction with meeting this practice provide all of the requirements of this practice are met.

The thermo-treated wood would be eligible for points in 606.2 if it is from a certified source provided that at least one other certified wood product was used for either a major or minor element of the building. Unless the deck was very large it would be considered a minor element.

Question: If a builder builds with ICF on all exterior walls, will this qualify for points?

Answer: An ICF system would qualify for termite resistant walls but practice 602.8 requires that “all structural walls, floors, concealed roof spaces…, exterior decks, and exterior cladding” be termite resistant. So in order to award the points the Verifier would need to be sure items other than walls are also constructed of termite resistant materials.

Question: Does a Chemical Barrier meet this practice? Answer: A chemical barrier is appropriate this practice only if the barrier transforms the material (to the proper height) into a termite resistant material. Simply placing a chemical barrier in the soil does not qualify for this practice.

Question: Does the practice expect any part of the roofing system to be termite resistant?

Answer: A non-termite resistant roof can be used and these points awarded if the roof can be inspected. If the roof cannot be inspected for termites then it should be made of termite resistant materials if points are to be awarded for that practice in a very heavy termite area.

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2.1.

7.1 602.1.7.1 Moisture control measures are in accordance with the following:

(1) Building materials with visible mold are not installed or are cleaned or encapsulated prior to concealment and closing.

(2) Insulation in cavities is dry in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions when enclosed (e.g., with drywall). MANDATORY .

(3) The moisture content of lumber is sampled to ensure it does not exceed 19 percent prior to the surface and/or cavity enclosure.

602.1.7.1

(1) None. (1) Verify by inspection that no visible mold is to be enclosed.

(2) If wet insulation is used, provide documentation of moisture content before enclosure.

(2) Mandatory for certification. Verify by inspection the insulation is dry. When dry insulation was installed verify that it was protected from weather. When wet applied insulation was installed verify that it had dried to the manufacturer’s recommended level (not just time period). Note Not Applicable for systems such as SIPS, ICFs, etc .

(3) Moisture sampling data by builder or 3rd party. (3) Verify by documentation review and general observation. If builder has taken moisture measurements verify builder has proper moisture meter and that it is calibrated. Approve 4 points.

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2.1.

7.2 602.1.7.2 Moisture content of subfloor, substrate, or concrete slabs is in accordance with the

appropriate industry standard for the finish flooring to be applied.

602.1.7.2 Flooring manufacturer’s recommendations for moisture content. Moisture sampling data by builder or 3rd party.

Verify by documentation review and general observation. If builder has taken moisture measurements verify builder has proper moisture meter and that it is calibrated.

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REQUIREMENT


602.

1.8 602.1.8 Water -resistive barrier. Where required by the ICC, IRC, or IBC, a water-resistive barrier

and/or drainage plane system is installed behind exterior veneer and/or siding. MANDATORY .

602.1.8

Plans, specification, or scope of work showing WRB or drainage plane.

Inspect when possible. If it has been covered up prior to the rough inspection, then verify by documentation and superintendent interview. If not applicable, put a note of explanation in the notes at the end of the section. MANDATORY.

Question: Will ICF qualify construction comply without the use of typical non-woven WRB product?

A WRB is required where required by the IRC code (regardless if that is the code required by the jurisdiction). The IRC does not appear to address WRB on ICF structures. Therefore the Verifier should rely on the manufacturer’s instructions. If the manufacturer recommends a WRB be installed then this practices applies. If the manufacturer does not indicate a WRB is required then it is OK to assume that the ICF itself serves as the WRB/drainage plane

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2.1.

9 602.1.9 Flashing . Flashing is provided as follows to minimize water entry into wall and roof assemblies and to direct water to exterior surfaces or exterior water-resistive barriers for drainage. Flashing details are provided in the construction documents and are in accordance with the fenestration manufacturer’s instructions, the flashing manufacturer’s instructions, or as detailed by a registered design professional.

602.1.9

(1) Flashing is installed at all of the following locations, as applicable:

(a) around exterior fenestrations, skylights, and doors (b) at roof valleys (c) at all building-to-deck, -balcony, -porch, and –stair intersections (d) at roof-to-wall intersections, at roof-to-chimney intersections, at wall-to-chimney intersections,

and at parapets. (e) at ends of and under masonry, wood, or metal copings and sills (f) above projecting wood trim (g) at built-in roof gutters, and (h) drip edge is installed at eaves and rake edges.

(2) All window head and jamb flashing is self-adhered flashing complying with AAMA 711-07.

(3) Pan flashing is installed at sills of all exterior windows and doors.

(4) Seamless, preformed kickout flashing, or prefabricated metal with soldered seams is provided at all roof-to-wall intersections. The type and thickness of the material used for roof flashing including but not limited kickout and step flashing is commensurate with the anticipated service life of the roofing material.

(5) A rainscreen wall design as follows is used for exterior wall assemblies

(a) a system designed with minimum 1/4-inch air space exterior to the water-resistive barrier, vented to the exterior at top and bottom of the wall, and integrated with flashing details. OR

(b) a cladding material or a water-resistive barrier with enhanced drainage, meeting 75 percent drainage efficiency determined in accordance with ASTM E2273.

(6) Through-wall flashing is installed at transitions between wall cladding materials or wall construction types.

(7) Flashing is installed at expansion joints in stucco walls

Plans/construction documents showing flashing details at all required locations

Verify plans show details for ALL of above listed area when applicable and inspect to the extent possible that flashing is installed. Interview superintendent if inspection is not possible.

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602.

1.10 602.1.10 Exterior doors . Entries at exterior door assemblies, inclusive of side lights, are covered by

one of the following methods to protect the building from the effects of precipitation and solar radiation. A projection factor of 0.375 minimum is provided. Eastern- and western-facing entries in Climate Zones 1, 2, and 3, as determined in accordance with Figure 6(1) or Appendix C, have a projection factor of 1.0 minimum, unless protected from direct solar radiation by other means (e.g., screen wall, vegetation).

(a) installing a porch roof or awning (b) extending the roof overhang (c) recessing the exterior door

602.1.10

Projection factor calculations = overhang width/ height to the overhang (Measure height from sill of window or door to the overhang) See illustration in the definition section of standard.

Observe that the doors are covered in accordance with the calculations and approve points as assigned. Only entrances into the living space should be counted; overhead garage doors and doors from the garage into the home do not count.

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2.1.

11

602.1.11 Tile backing materials. Tile backing materials installed under tiled surfaces in wet areas are in accordance with ASTM C1178, C1278, C1288, or C1325. MANDATORY

602.1.11 Manufacturer’s literature/specification/labeling showing ASTM compliance. Plans/specifications and scope of work showing installation.

Verify by inspection at rough if installed. Otherwise verify by documentation review or by inspection at final if possible. Code compliant membrane materials with an ESR report are acceptable as well.

602.

1.12

602.1.12 Roof overhangs. Roof overhangs, in accordance with Table 602.1.12, are provided over a minimum of 90 percent of exterior walls to protect the building envelope.

602.1.12

Table 602.1.12 Minimum Roof Overhang for One - & Two -Story Buildings

Inches of Rainfall (1) Eave Overhang (Inches)

Rake Over hang (Inches)

≤40 12 12 >41 and ≤70 18 12

>70 24 12 (1111) (1) Annual mean total precipitation in inches is in

accordance with Figure 6(2).

For SI: 12 inches = 304.8 mm

None. Observe the proper overhangs including any gutters on 90% of the building for both Eave & Rake. This only applies to 1, 2, or 2.5 story buildings. No points for 3 or more stories.

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2.1.

13

602.1.13 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup of water, an ice barrier is installed in accordance with the ICC IRC or IBC at roof eaves of pitched roofs and extends a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line of the building. MANDATORY

602.1.13

Plans showing ice barrier. Inspect when possible. If it has been covered up, then verify by documentation and superintendent interview. Verify 24” extension inside wall line.

Question: Is there a chart or map that shows regions where ice buildup is a concern?

Answer: The Standard doesn’t provide a specific map of where ice dam protection is needed. If there is a history of problems in the area then this practice certainly is applicable. If the Verifier is not sure if there is a history of problems the following guidance may be used to determine if this is applicable. A National Building Code published by the Building Officials and Code Administrators, International, Inc., calls for ice dam protection wherever the average January temperature is 25° F (-4° C) or less. (Section 1507.2) (1996). The Standard Building Code published by the Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc., requires ice dam protection in all areas of the country where the January mean temperature is 30° F (minus 1° C) or less. (Section 1509.4.2.1) (1996).

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602.

1.14

602.1.14 Architectural featu res . Architectural features that increase the potential for water intrusion are avoided:

(1) All horizontal ledgers are sloped away to provide gravity drainage as appropriate for the application.

(2) No roof configurations that create horizontal valleys in roof design. (3) No recessed windows and architectural features that trap water on horizontal surfaces.

602.1.14

None. Verify by inspection.

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2.2 602.2 Roof surfaces . A minimum of 90 percent of roof surfaces, not used for roof penetrations and

associated equipment, on-site renewable energy systems such as photovoltaics or solar thermal energy collectors, or rooftop decks, amenities and walkways, are constructed of one or both of the following:

(1) products that are in accordance with the ENERGY STAR® cool roof certification or equivalent (2) a vegetated roof system

602.2

When used, manufacturer’s literature showing ENERGY STAR Cool Roof or equivalent.

Verify by observation 90% of roof meets criteria.

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2.3 602.3 Roof water discharge. A gutter and downspout system or splash blocks and effective grading

are provided to carry water a minimum of 5 feet (1524 mm) away from perimeter foundation walls.

602.3

None. Observe that the permanent roof water discharge system will carry water at least 5’ from the building.

602.

4.1 602.4.1 Finished grade at all sides of a building is sloped to provide a minimum of 6 inches (150 mm) of

fall within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the edge of the building. Where lot lines, walls, slopes, or other physical barriers prohibit 6 inches (152 mm) of fall within 10 feet (3048 mm), the final grade is sloped away from the edge of the building at a minimum slope of 2 percent. MANDATORY.

602.4.1

None. Verify by inspection proper grade slope. MANDATORY.

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2.4.

2 602.4.2 The final grade is sloped away from the edge of the building at a minimum slope of 5 percent.

602.4.2 None. Verify by inspection.

602.

4.3 602.4.3 Water is directed to drains or swales to ensure drainage away from the structure.


603.

1 603.1 Reuse of existing building . Major elements or components of existing buildings and structures are reused, modified, or deconstructed for later use.

(Points awarded for every 200 square feet (18.5 m 2) of floor area.)

603.1

Plans/documentation showing original square footage. When modified, plans showing modifications. When deconstructed, photos showing process and receipts for donation of major components.

Verify by observation for reuse or modification. Verify by documentation review for deconstruction. Approve points for each whole increment of 200 sq feet of the original building. Verify major components are donated or otherwise available for reuse.

Question: If a builder gives building parts, such as doors and cabinets of the deconstructed building to Habitat for Humanity can he claim these points?

Answer: No, doors and cabinets are not considered major elements.

Question: 1 point awarded for every 200 square feet of floor area reused, modified, or DECONSTRUCTED in lieu of demolition. With regard to deconstruction, the “How to Implement” explanation states that at least the major components of the building should be diverted from the landfill. Should ALL major components (footings, foundation, slab, exterior walls, roof structure, windows, cladding, etc.) be diverted from landfills, or x% for the points to count?

Answer: The deconstruction criteria should be applied to all major elements of the building that can be practically recycled. To the extent practical, it is expected 85% of the major building components to be re-used or diverted from landfill to award these points.

Question: In a situation where the building has burned to the ground can the slab and some existing CMU foundation walls be re-used for this practice?

Answer : This would not qualify for 603.1 as the building is not being reused. This can qualify for 603.2 if it meets the 1% threshold.

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603.

2 603.2 Salvaged materials . Reclaimed and/or salvaged materials and components are used. The total material value and labor cost of salvaged materials is equal to or exceeds 1 percent of the total construction cost. (Points awarded per 1% of salvaged materials used b ased on the total construction cost.) (Materials, elements, or compon ents awarded points under Section 603.1 shall not be awarded points under Section 603.2.)

603.2

List of the type and quantity of salvaged materials used on this building. Demonstrate that the installed cost of the salvaged materials to be = to or >1% of total construction costs.

Verify listed materials have been used and installed cost meets 1% criteria.

Construction costs = only materials plus labor. Award points only whole percentage increments – no fractional points.

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3.3 603.3 Scrap materials. Sorting and reuse of scrap building material is facilitated (e.g., a central

storage area or dedicated bins are provided). Scrap building materials are sorted and reused (e.g ., provide a central storage area or dedicated bins).

603.3

None. Verify by observation the presence of central storage area or dedicated recycle bins.

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4.1 604.1 Recycled content. Building materials with recycled content are used for two minor and/or two

major components of the building.

604.1

Table 604.1 Recycled Content

Material Percentage Recycled Content Points Per 2 Minor Points Per 2 Major

25% to less than 50% 1 2

50% to less than 75% 2 4

more than 75% 3 6 Building materials with recycled content are used f or two minor and/or two major components of the bui lding.

List of materials used with recycled content. Manufacturer’s literature showing recycled content.

Verify listed materials were used. Verify recycle content from literature. See Chapter 2 for definition of major and minor materials. 9 Points max for this practice – 3 for minor components plus 6 for major components. Points are awarded for only one pair of minor items and one pair of major items.

Question: If the home uses one product with 40% recycled content and one product with 80% recycle content, can points be awarded for the average recycled content?

Answer: No. Product recycle percentages may not be averaged. Points should be awarded based on the lowest content product. If major and minor products are mixed, points should be awarded for the minor product category.

Question: Is recycled copper piping a minor or a major component of the building?

Answer: Minor component.

Question: On the Green Approved Products list, it states that Owens Corning insulation is available for 4 points in section 604.1(2). Is it correct that if a builder has different kinds of insulation, as one builder was lead to believe and has since argued his case using the Green approved products list, that the Verifier is to award points – counting those different types of insulation as different types of materials / major components per 604.1.2?

Answer: 4 points are available if the builder uses two major components with at least 50% recycled content. The Owens Corning product when used as wall insulation count as one of the two products. If builder insulates half of the walls with Owens Corning material and half with Johns Manville, that will not count as two major components. Another major component with at least 50% recycled content is needed to meet this practice. Since the Johns Manville product is only approved at the 25% level, if a builder did half OC and half JM and had another major component at 50% recycle content the builder would only get 2 points because of the 25% level for the JM product.

Question: Would a major component include up to 25% of recycled component such as fly-ash or slag as part of the

ufficie cement mixture?

Answer: Footings, foundations and slabs would be considered major components. If the Portland cement used on a project has between 25% and 49%recycled content (basically diverted from land-fills) then it could be claimed as one of the two building materials used on a project. As noted though, the project would have to have another major building component that also has between 25% and 49% recycled content in order for points to be awarded for 604.1.

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605.

1 605.1 Construction waste management plan. A construction waste management plan is developed, posted at the jobsite, and implemented with a goal of recycling or salvaging a minimum of 50 percent (by weight) of construction waste.

605.1

Post C&D waste management plan on-site. Evidence that at least 50% of waste materials are being recycled or salvaged.

Inspect that the C&D plan is posed on-site and being implemented to meet 50% goal. Typical evidence would be receipts for landfill vs. recycling weights.

Question: This can be achieved by 50% reduction by on-site recycling and off-site recycling. Can it also be achieved by builder re-use on the next home? If yes, how is this verified as there are no haul tickets. Will an estimate from the builder be sufficient?

Answer: The intent is to divert material from a landfill. Re-use on another home meets the intent of the practice. The Verifier will need to question the builder on what/how much/where the material was actually used on another home. Because the future is uncertain, it would not be appropriate to award points for this type of use that might occur in the future.

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5.2 605.2 On-site recycling . On-site recycling measures following applicable regulations and codes are

implemented, such as the following:

(a) Materials are ground or otherwise safely applied on-site as soil amendment or fill. A minimum of 50 percent (by weight) of construction and land-clearing waste is diverted from landfill.

(b) Alternative compliance methods approved by the Adopting Entity.

(c) Compatible untreated biomass material (lumber, posts, beams, etc.) are set aside for combustion if a solid fuel-burning appliance per Section 901.2.1(2) will be available for on-site renewable energy.

605.2

No documentation required, but builder rep shall point out on-site recycling efforts and explain 50% goal.

Inspect for on-site recycling efforts such as grinding waste and re-using it on-site. Use judgment for 50% goal.

Question: If it is not practical to crush and recycle concrete on site, but the concrete can be trucked to an off-site crusher and then returned to the site, can points be obtained for this practice?

Answer: This approach meets the intent of 605.2 and it is OK to award points if the overall 50% criteria are met.

Question: Does a modular manufacture get points for on-site recycling since they recycle a lot of materials inside the factory.

Answer: Not automatically. Info from the modular factory can be combined with site info to meet this practice but the combination needs to meet the 50% minimum but this practice also includes land clearing waste.

Question: If the builder has posted a construction waste management plan onsite and some efforts are visible but builder does not provide evidence of 50% recycled/salvaging at the end of construction, are points awarded?

Answer: For 605.1 the practice requires that the goal is 50% diverted. As long as the builder has made a reasonable effort to meet the 50% goal, the points are OK.

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5.3 605.3 Recycled construction materials . Construction materials (e.g., wood, cardboard, metals,

drywall, plastic, asphalt roofing shingles, or concrete) are recycled offsite.

(1) a minimum of two types of materials are recycled (2) for each additional recycled material type

605.3

Copy of agreement with and pick-up tickets by recycling contractor, list of materials sent to recycler.

Verify that all of each type of recycled materials from the builder’s list of construction and demolition materials has been sent to an off-site recycling location.

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6.1 606.1 Biobased products . The following biobased products are used:

(a) certified solid wood in accordance with Section 606.2 (b) engineered wood (c) bamboo (d) cotton (e) cork (f) straw (g) natural fiber products made from crops (soy-based, corn-based) (h) products with the minimum biobased contents of the USDA 7 CFR Part 2902 (i) other biobased materials with a minimum of 50 percent biobased content (by weight or

volume)

606.1

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(1) Two types of biobased materials are used, each for more than 0.5 percent of the project’s projected building material cost.

(2) Two types of biobased materials are used, each for more than 1 percent of the project’s projected building material cost.

(3) For each additional biobased material used for more than 0.5 percent of the project’s projected building material cost.

List of materials and amounts, and manufacturers’ literature or certificate documenting materials manufactured from renewable resources used on this site.

Verify materials are used, that the materials are from renewable sources, and % of total building material cost.

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6.2 606.2 Wood -based products . Wood or wood-based products are certified to the requirements of one

of the following recognized product programs:

(a) American Forest Foundation’s American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) (b) Canadian Standards Association’s Sustainable Forest Management System Standards

(CSA Z809) (c) Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) (d) Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification Systems (PEFC) (e) Sustainable Forestry Initiative® Program (SFI) (f) other product programs mutually recognized by PEFC

(1) A minimum of two certified wood-based products are used for minor elements of the building (e.g., all trim, cabinetry, or millwork).

(2) A minimum of two certified wood-based products are used in major elements of the building (e.g., walls, floors, roof).

606.2

List of certified wood product types used and literature or stamp showing certification.

Verify by inspection and documentation review that certified products were used.

Question: Do the wood-based products have to be chain of custody certified, certified fiber sourcing, or does the manufacturer have to be a program participant?

Answer: All that is required to claim these points is the use of the certified products. The Verifier is to look for documentation that the builder has used certified products in the required quantities. The chain of custody and the certified fiber sourcing issue are part of the certification programs. If the wood-based products are certified as required, these issues will have been addressed. The product manufacturer’s participation in the program is not the issue. The certification of the products used in the green building is the issue.

Question: What percentage of wood content must a product have to be considered “wood based”?

Answer: 50% or more to be wood-based.

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6.3 606.3 Manufa cturing energy. Materials manufactured using a minimum of 33 percent of the primary

manufacturing process energy derived from (1) renewable sources, (2) combustible waste sources, or (3) renewable energy credits (RECs) are used for major components of the building.

606.3

List materials used and manufacturer’s literature showing source and amount of energy used in manufacturing.

Verify by inspection and document review that major products (e.g., walls, floors, roofs) use at least 33% renewable or waste energy.

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1.7 607.1 Recycling. Recycling by the occupant is facilitated by one or more of the following methods:

(1) A built-in collection space in each kitchen and an aggregation/pick-up space in a garage, covered outdoor space, or other area for recycling containers is provided.

(2) Compost facility is provided on the site.

601.7


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REQUIREMENT


Question: Does the aggregation/pick-up space have to be in the garage?

Answer: The intent is that there is an identified space for recycling containers either inside the garage or in covered outdoor space. This practice does require a “built in collection space in the kitchen” but the requirement for an “aggregation/pick-up space” has more room for Verifier judgment. If the garage has space for the bins and for the car(s) then the points are OK. If the bins are covered, then an identified space outside is also OK but it should be such that the occupant is likely to use it.

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7.2 607.2 Food waste disposers. A minimum of one food waste disposer is installed at the primary

kitchen sink.

607.2


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8.1 608.1 Resource -efficient materials . Products containing fewer materials are used to achieve the

same end-use requirements as conventional products, including but not limited to:

(1) lighter, thinner brick with bed depth less than 3 inches and/or brick with coring of more that 25 percent

(2) engineered wood or engineered steel products (3) roof or floor trusses

608.1

List the products used and justification that are claimed to use fewer resources if not specifically listed in the practice.

Verify by inspection that appropriate products were used for at least 80% of the type of material used. Products (other than those listed) for this practice should show at least a 15% reduction in the core material. To get points for a material that is not listed, the amount of product used should be comparable to the amount typically used by the products listed. This practice is intended for products that use the same primary material. Points should not be awarded for substituting products made with different materials.

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9.1 609.1 Regional materials. Regional materials are used for major elements or components of the

building.

609.1

List the materials or components and manufacturing location used in the home that are extracted, processed, and manufactured within 500 miles

Verify use of a material originating within 500 miles or 1500 miles for a major element of the building. See chapter 2 for definition of regional material and major element. .

Question: Does concrete or asphalt used in the driveways typically qualify for points as an indigenous material?

Answer: The intent of this requirement is to minimize the environmental impact due to transporting materials/products long distances. In the case of ready mix concrete that is just mixed locally the most significant transportation involved is with the cement and the aggregate. If they both are produced within the required distance then the ready mix would qualify for these points. The same logic applies to asphalt. For a multiple component material, the weighted average (volume or weight) of the distance the component materials travel to get the construction site is used to determine the distance.

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0.1 610.1 Life cycle anal ysis. A life cycle analysis (LCA) tool is used to select environmentally preferable

products or assemblies, or an LCA is conducted on the entire building. Points are awarded in accordance with Section 610.1.1 or 610.1.2. Only one method of analysis or tool may be utilized. The reference service life for the building is 60 years for any life cycle analysis tool. Results of the LCA are reported in the manual required in Section 1003.1(1) of this Standard in terms of the environmental impacts listed in this practice and it is stated if operating energy was included in the LCA.

610.1

For multi-unit buildings seeking points in this section, the building construction manual must contain this information.

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0.1.

1 610.1.1 Whol e-building life cycle analysis. A whole-building LCA is performed using a life cycle assessment and data compliant with ISO 14044 or other recognized standards.

610.1.1

Documented LCA. Review the whole building LCA to verify compliance with ISO 14044. The LCA must be conducted prior to construction. Enter the LCA tool used and who did the analysis in the notes column of the verification report.

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REQUIREMENT


610.

1.2 610.1.2 Life cycle analysis for a product or assembly . An environmentally preferable product or

assembly is selected for an application based upon the use of an LCA tool that incorporates data methods compliant with ISO 14044 or other recognized standards that compare the environmental impact of products or assemblies.

610.1.2 61

0.1.

2.1 610.1.2.1 Product LCA . A product with improved environmental impact measures compared to

another product(s) intended for the same use is selected. The environmental impact measures used in the assessment are selected from the following:

(a) Fossil fuel consumption (b) Global warming potential (c) Acidification potential (d) Eutrophication potential (e) Ozone depletion potential

(Points are awarded for each product/system compari son where the selected product/system improved upon the environmental impact measures by an average of 15 percent.)

610.1.2.1

Table 610.1.2.1 Product LCA

4 Impact Measures 5 Impact Measures POINTS

2 3

Documented ISO 14044 LCA comparing at least two products intended for the same application.

Review the LCA to verify compliance with ISO 14044. The LCA must be conducted prior to construction and be a decision factor in selecting a more environmentally preferable product. Points are based on both the number of product types compared and the number of impact measures analyzed for. Enter the LCA tool used and who did the analysis in the notes column of the verification report.

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0.1.

2.2 610.1.2.2 Building assembly LCA . A building assembly with improved environmental impact

measures compared to an alternative assembly of the same function is selected. The full life cycle, from resource extraction to demolition and disposal (including but not limited to on-site construction, maintenance and replacement, material and product embodied acquisition, and process and transportation energy), is assessed. The assessment includes all structural elements, insulation, and wall coverings of the assembly. The assessment does not include electrical and mechanical equipment and controls, plumbing products, fire detection and alarm systems, elevators, and conveying systems. The following types of building assemblies are eligible for points under this practice:

(a) exterior walls (b) roof/ceiling (c) interior walls or ceilings (d) intermediate floors

The environmental impact measures used in the assessment are selected from the following: (a) Fossil fuel consumption (b) Global warming potential (c) Acidification potential (d) Eutrophication potential (e) Ozone depletion potential

(Points are awarded based on the number of types of building assemblies that improve upon environmental impact measures by an average of 15 percent.)

610.1.2.2

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Table 610.1.2.2 Building Assembly LCA

Number of Types of Building Assemblies

4 Impact M easures 5 Impact M easures POINTS

2 types 3 6 3 types 4 8 4 types 5 10

Documented ISO 14044 LCA comparing at least two assemblies intended for the same application.

Review the LCA to verify compliance with ISO 14044. The LCA must be conducted prior to construction and be a decision factor in selecting a more environmentally preferable assembly. Points are based on both the number of assembly types compared and the number of impact measures analyzed for. The product comparison must be suitable and reasonable for the building. For example, comparing to vinyl siding to better product in a neighborhood with covenants that preclude the use of vinyl siding does not meet the suitable/reasonable criteria. Enter the LCA tool used and who did the analysis in the notes column of the verification report.

Question: Where can the builder find information about an acceptable LCA tool and how to perform such an analysis? Someone must have done this before.

Answer: Examples of currently available LCA selection tools and databases compliant with ISO and other recognized standards include the following: BEES (Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability) (NIST): http://www.bfrl.nist.gov/oae/software/bees/ EcoCalculator (Athena): http://www.athenasmi.ca/tools/ecoCalculator/ (EIE) Environmental Impact Estimator (Athena): http://www.athenasmi.ca/tools/impactEstimator/index.html Sima Pro 7 (Pre Consultants): http://www.pre.nl/simapro/default.htm

Question : A project that is considering using ICESTONE countertops, which in addition to being 100% recycled content have also achieved a Gold level Cradle to Cradle certification, which includes a life cycle analysis among its certification criteria. Is this certification sufficient for points in 610.1?

Answer: To get points in 610.1 the LCA needs to be used compare two or more products and the product selection should be based in part on the results of the LCA. If the Cradle to Grave analysis only looked at the one product that would not be sufficient but if two products were considered or if the builder used the Cradle to Cradle info and info from another LCA on an alternate product then the points would be appropriate.

611.1 Manufacturer’s enviro nmental management system concepts. Product manufacturer’s operations and business practices include environmental management system concepts, and the production facility is registered to ISO 14001 or equivalent. The aggregate value of building products from registered ISO 14001 or equivalent production facilities is 1 percent or more of the estimated total building materials cost.

List of materials used including manufacturer, cost of materials, and % of total materials cost. Copy of ISO14001 certificate for each material claimed. Analysis showing total material cost.

Verify that each material listed is from ISO 14001 registered company and that the total usage meets the 1% threshold. Approve 1 point for each 1% of total material cost used. Round down to the nearest whole number.

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


611.

2 611.2 Sustainable products . One or more of the following products are used for at least 30% of the floor or wall area of the entire dwelling unit, as applicable. Products are certified by a third-party agency accredited to ISO Guide 65.

(1) 50% or more of carpet installed (by square feet) is certified to NSF 140. (2) 50% or more of resilient flooring installed (by square feet) is certified to NSF 332. (3) 50% or more of the insulation installed (by square feet) is certified to EcoLogo CCD-016. (4) 50% or more of interior wall coverings installed (by square feet) is certified to NSF 342. (5) 50% or more of the gypsum board installed (by square feet) is certified to ULE ISR 100. (6) 50% or more of the door leafs installed (by number of door leafs) is certified to ULE ISR 102. (7) 50% or more of the tile installed (by square feet) is certified to TCNA A138.1 Specifications for

Sustainable Ceramic Tiles, Glass Tiles and Tile Installation Materials.

611.2

List of certified products with product literature or other evidence of certification.

Review list and literature and inspect to verify certified products installed at the 30%/50% level. Enter material types in the notes column.

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1.3 611.3 Universal design elements . Dwelling incorporates one or more of the following universal design

elements. Conventional industry construction tolerances are permitted.

(1) Any no-step entrance into the dwelling which (1) is accessible from a substantially level parking or drop-off area (no more than 2%) via an accessible path which has no individual change in elevation or other obstruction of more than 1-1/2 inches in height with the pitch not exceeding 1 in 12 and (2) provides a minimum 32-inch wide clearance into the dwelling.

(2) Minimum 36-inch wide accessible route from the no-step entrance into at least one visiting room in the dwelling and into at least one full or half bathroom which has a minimum 32-inch clear door width and a 30-inch by 48-inch clear area inside the bathroom outside the door swing.

(3) Minimum 36-inch wide accessible route from the no-step entrance into at least one bedroom which has a minimum 32-inch clear door width.

(4) Blocking or equivalent installed in the accessible bathroom walls for future installation of grab bars at water closet and bathing fixture, if applicable.

611.3

None. (1), (2), (3) Verify by inspection at final.

(4) Verify by inspection at rough.


ENERGY EFFICIENCY

REQUIREMENT


701.

1.1 701.1.1 Mini mum Performance Path requirements. A building complying with Section 702 shall

exceed the baseline minimum performance required by the ICC IECC by 15 percent and shall include a minimum of two practices from Section 704.

701.1.1

Software report indicating at least 15% over the 2009 IECC requirement for this climate location. Acceptable software includes REM/Rate, or Energy Gauge. The same software report can be used to support performance point claim in Section 702.

Verify acceptable software was used and result confirms minimum of 15% over IECC 2009 requirement. Report must be done by a qualified professional.

This section is MANDATORY for Emerald Level.

Verify at least 2 practices are approved from Section 704.

Question: Why would a builder choose one path (performance or prescriptive) over the other? Does the prescriptive path work better for a small builder that does not build a lot of similar homes, and does the performance work better for a large builder?

Answer: The Prescriptive Path allows the builder to pick from a menu of products and practices to be installed into the building, earning points for each of those items. The onsite inspection for this path can be performed by any accredited Verifier. As long as the Verifier approves the items selected, the builder earns the points for the approved items. No performance testing, i.e., blower door or duct blaster is required.

By contrast, the Performance Path utilizes an energy professional, typically a HERS rater to do energy modeling for the building, and the onsite inspection for the energy chapter (section) must be done by a qualified professional, typically a rater. The energy modeling of the building must show that the building is at least 15% above the 2009 IEC. Buildings were the modeling shows performance at 30%, 40%, or 50% above the 2009 IECC additional performance path points are available. Note, this modeling may or may not be done by the accredited Verifier depending on that particular Verifier’s professional knowledge of energy efficiency. The points from chapter 7 to determine the certification threshold is based on the total points achieved in section 702 OR 703 plus the points from 704 and 705. To achieve the emerald level of the Standard the performance path must be chosen.

Under the Standard, regardless of the path chosen, the plan review of the Energy Chapter must be done by an energy professional (this plan review can be done in the office). Performance testing is optional to either the Prescriptive Path or the Performance Path.

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1.1.

2 701.1.2 Minimum Prescriptive Path requirements. A building complying with Section 703 shall obtain a minimum of 30 points from Section 703 and shall include a minimum of two practices from Section 704.

701.1.2

None.

Verify that at least 30 points have been awarded for section 703 and that at least two practices have been met in section 704.

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1.1.

3 701.1.3 Alternative bronze level compliance . As an alternative, any building that qualifies as an ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Qualified Home or demonstrates compliance with the 2012 IECC or Chapter 11 of the 2012 IRC is deemed to meet all mandatory practices of Chapter 7 and achieves the bronze level for Chapter 7. The buildings achieving compliance under Section 701.1.3 are not eligible for achieving a rating level above bronze.

Alternative Bronze Level compliance. As an alternat ive, any building that qualifies as an ENERGY STAR Qualified Home or equivalent achieves the bronze level for Chapter 7.

701.1.3

REQUIRED: ENERGY STAR Certificate or statement from energy professional that the home meets the 2012 IECC. NOTE: Only Bronze level is achievable with this scoring path regardless of overall points.

Review certificate and statement for this building. Enter requested info in the Verification Notes column for this practice.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


701.

3 701.3 Adopting Entity review. A review by the Adopting Entity or designated third party shall be conducted to verify design and compliance with Chapter 7. MANDATORY

701.3

REQUIRED: 3rd party report/statement showing design has been reviewed to ensure energy efficient performance or specific prescriptive details are adequately implemented in the building’s design, and to ensure proper integration of various energy efficient technologies. In Climate Zone 1 PE must sign off that the system will maintain the cooling season indoor humidity less than the ASHRAE Simplified method for Design Indoor RH(70%) if the system size is not consistent with Manual S.

Verify report is for the house being verified and that it shows Chapter 7 compliance based upon plan review and inspection and note reviewer name and organization. The review must examine the building as a system and make sure all elements are appropriate and will properly work together. Report must be done by a qualified professional. The typical plan review by the local code official does not qualify for this review. This review may not be done by the HVAC contractor installing the job. This review must be completed before construction is past the rough inspection phase. Verifiers who are qualified energy professionals may do this review. In Climate Zone 1 this review must also verify the ACCA Manual S was used to size the HVAC system OR a PE must sign off that the system will maintain the cooling season indoor humidity less that the ASHRAE Simplified method for Design Indoor RH(70%).

Question: What is required to comply with 701.3? Answer: Compliance with 701.3 requires that a qualified energy professional such as a HERS rater reviews the builder’s plans with the items claimed in Chapter 7 and provides a signed statement that the overall intent of the Energy Efficiency Chapter is being met by the design per the plans. This review is intended to make sure all elements (e.g. HVAC, building envelope, insulation, etc) of the home related to energy use will work together to provide a good result.

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1.4.

1.1 701.4.1.1 HVAC system s izing. Space heating and cooling system is sized according to heating and

cooling loads calculated using ACCA Manual J, or equivalent. Equipment is selected using ACCA Manual S or equivalent. MANDATORY

701.4.1.1

REQUIRED: Software output report for this building using ACCA Manual J AND Manual S or equivalent.

Verify Manual J & Manual S reports are for the building being verified and that the square footage and specifications used in the report are consistent with the building being verified. Verify HVAC equipment sizes installed for this specific building comply with the analysis recommendation. Report must be done by a qualified professional.

Question: Does the RemRate Load Calculation meet the equivalence requirement for manual.

Answer : No, RemRate is not considered an equivalent for Manual J.

Question: The house has a heat pump as the primary heat/hot water system and an additional water heater as a backup. Does the requirement for Manual J for section 701.4.1.2 still apply?

Answer: Manual J is used to determine heating and cooling loads. This is appropriate regardless of the type of HVAC system installed.

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1.4.

1.2 701.4.1.2 Radiant and hydronic spac e heating. Where installed as a primary heat source in the

building, radiant or hydronic space heating system is designed using industry-approved guidelines and standards (e.g., ACCA Manual J, AHRI I=B=R, ACCA 5 QI-2010, or an accredited design professional’s and manufacturer’s recommendations). MANDATORY

701.4.1.2

REQUIRED if applicable: When primary heat source in the building is a radiant or hydronic heating system, a statement from qualified professional of system design using industry-approved guidelines.

Verify by documentation review. The statement must be done by a qualified professional and be specific to the building being verified. When there is not a radiant or hydronic system as primary heat indicate that via the appropriate dropdown menu choice.

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1.4.

2.1 701.4.2.1 Duct air sealing. Ducts are air sealed. All duct sealing materials are in conformance with UL

181A or UL 181B specifications and are installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. MANDATORY

701.4.2.1

Mandatory if there is a duct system: For buildings with ducted systems provide product spec or trade contractor’s scope of work to confirm use of duct sealing using UL 181 tape, mastic, gaskets, or an IRC or ICC/IMC approved system.

Verify that approved duct sealing methods have been used. All field assembled seams and joints should be sealed. Indicate No Ducts if there is no ductwork.

701

.4.2 .2 701.4.2.2 Supply ducts. Building cavities are not used as supply ducts. MANDATORY

701.4.2.2

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


None. Verify by observation no building cavities have been used as SUPPLY ducts.

701.

4.2.

701.4.2.3 Duct system s izing. Duct system is sized and designed in accordance with ACCA Manual D or equivalent. MANDATORY

701.4.2. REQUIRED: Software output report for this building using ACCA Manual D or equivalent.

Verify Manual D reports are for the building being verified and that the square footage and specifications used in the report are consistent with the building being verified. Report must be done by a qualified professional. Verify duct system was installed consistent you the Manual D design.

701.

4.3.

1 701.4.3.1 Building Thermal Envelope. The building thermal envelope is durably sealed to limit infiltration. The sealing methods between dissimilar materials allow for differential expansion and contraction. The following are caulked, gasketed, weather-stripped or otherwise sealed with an air barrier material, suitable film, or solid material: MANDATORY

(a) All joints, seams and penetrations. (b) Site-built windows, doors, and skylights. (c) Openings between window and door assemblies and their respective jambs and framing. (d) Utility penetrations. (e) Dropped ceilings or chases adjacent to the thermal envelope. (f) Knee walls. (g) Walls and ceilings separating a garage from conditioned spaces. (h) Behind tubs and showers on exterior walls. (i) Common walls between dwelling units. (j) Attic access openings. (k) Rim joist junction. (l) Other sources of infiltration.

701.4.3.1

Drawing, specifications, scopes of work detailing air sealing that is not readily inspected during the rough inspection.

Verify by inspection to the extent possible. When various sealing areas have been covered up by the time of the rough inspection, verify by documentation review and superintendent interview.

Question: If a builder has the insulation contractor spray foam the inside of the cold side sheathing of a cantilevered floor and conditions the space from below will this meet 701.4.3.1 because the closed cell spray foam acts as an insulation and air barrier?

Answer: If the manufacturer claims it will act as an air barrier then it is an acceptable air sealing for that portion of the building.

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1.4.

3.2 701.4.3.2 Air sealing and insulation. Grade 3 insulation installation is not permitted. The compliance

of the building envelope air tightness and insulation installation is demonstrated in accordance with Section 701.4.3.2(1) or 701.4.3.2(2). MANDATORY

(1) Testing option. Building envelope tightness and insulation installation is considered acceptable when air leakage is less than seven air changes per hour (ACH) when tested with a blower door at a pressure of 33.5 psf (50 Pa). Testing is conducted after rough-in and after installation of penetrations of the building envelope, including penetrations for utilities, plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and combustion appliances. Testing is conducted under the following conditions:

(a) Exterior windows and doors, fireplace and stove doors are closed, but not sealed; (b) Dampers are closed, but not sealed, including exhaust, intake, makeup air, backdraft and flue

dampers; (c) Interior doors are open; (d) Exterior openings for continuous ventilation systems and heat recovery ventilators are closed

and sealed; (e) Heating and cooling systems are turned off; (f) HVAC duct terminations are not sealed; and (g) Supply and return registers are not sealed.

701.4.3.2

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


(2) Visual inspection option . Building envelope tightness and insulation installation are considered acceptable when the items listed in Table 701.4.3.2(2) applicable to the method of construction are field verified. MANDATORY

Table 701.4.3.2(2) Air Barrier and Insulation Inspection Component Cri teria

COMPONENT CRITERIA Air barrier and thermal barrier

• Exterior thermal envelope insulation for framed walls is installed in substantial contact and continuous alignment with building envelope air barrier.

• Breaks or joints in the air barrier are filled or repaired. • Air-permeable insulation is not used as a sealing material. • Air-permeable insulation is installed with an air barrier.

Ceiling/attic • Air barrier in dropped ceiling/soffit is substantially aligned with insulation and any gaps are sealed.

• Attic access (except unvented attic), knee wall door, or drop-down stair is sealed.

Exterior walls • Corners and headers are insulated. • Junction of foundation and sill plate is sealed.

Windows and doors • Space between window/door jambs and framing is sealed. Rim joists • Rim joists are insulated and include an air barrier. Floors (including above-garage and cantilevered floors)

• Insulation is installed to maintain permanent contact with underside of subfloor decking.

• Air barrier is installed at any exposed edge of insulation. Crawlspace walls • Where installed, insulation is permanently attached to walls.

• Exposed earth in unvented crawlspaces is covered with Class I vapor retarder with overlapping joints taped.

Shafts, penetrations • Duct shafts, flue shafts, and utility penetrations opening to the exterior or an unconditioned space are sealed.

Narrow cavities • Batts in narrow cavities are cut to fit, or narrow cavities are filled by sprayed/blown insulation.

Garage separation • Air sealing is provided between the garage and conditioned spaces.

Recessed lighting • Recessed light fixtures not installed in the conditioned space are air tight, IC rated, and sealed to drywall.

Plumbing and wiring • Insulation is placed between the outside and pipes. Batt insulation is cut to fit around wiring and plumbing, or sprayed/blown insulation extends behind piping and wiring.

Shower/tub adjacent to exterior wall

• Showers and tubs adjacent to exterior walls have insulation and an air barrier separation from the exterior.

Electrical/phone box in exterior walls

• Air barrier extends behind boxes or air sealed-type boxes are installed.

Common wall • Air barrier is installed in common walls between dwelling units. HVAC register boots • HVAC register boots that penetrate building envelope are

sealed to subfloor or drywall. Fireplace • Fireplace walls include an air barrier.

Testing Option: REQUIRED: Blower door report by qualified professional. Visual Inspection Option: None.

Testing Option: Review blower door test report and confirm proper test conditions and ACH50 is less than or equal to 7. Verify by inspection that insulation installation is better than Grade 3. The insulation does not have to be graded but your inspection should insure that it is better than grade 3.

When a multi-family building is built above a garage on a concrete slab podium that has a plenum between the garage ceiling and the podium slab and the plenum contains piping that interferes with the ability for the insulation to be “installed to maintain permanent contact with the underside of the subfloor decking, …” as stated in the mandatory requirement 701.4.3.2(1)(a), the intent of the NGBS is met if the following

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


conditions are met:

1) The podium/plenum is insulated in compliance with the 2009 IECC.

2) The plenum is air sealed.

An analysis is done to show that the residential units adjoining the podium achieve the same number of points for section 702 or 703 (as applicable). When the prescriptive path is used the analysis must show that the percentage above is proportional to the points awarded. For example, a building earning 45 points in 703 would need to the analysis to show that the worst case unit sitting on the podium must be at least 22.5% better than the 2009 IECC.

701.

4.3.

3 701.4.3.3 Fenestration air leakage. Windows, skylights and sliding glass doors have an air infiltration rate of no more than 0.3 cfm per square foot (1.5 L/s/m2), and swinging doors no more than 0.5 cfm per square foot (2.6 L/s/m2), when tested in accordance with NFRC 400 or AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 by an accredited, independent laboratory and listed and labeled. This practice does not apply to site-built windows, skylights, and doors.

701.4.3.3

Manufacturer’s label or literature indicating listing complying with this practice.

Verify by inspection if proper information is on window and door labels. Verify by documentation review if other evidence is provided and verify by inspection that those windows and doors were the ones installed.

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1.4.

3.4 701.4.3.4 Recessed lighting. Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope are

sealed to limit air leakage between conditioned and unconditioned spaces. All recessed luminaires are IC-rated and labeled as meeting ASTM E283 when tested at 1.57 psf (75 Pa) pressure differential with no more than 2.0 cfm (0.944 L/s) of air movement from the conditioned space to the ceiling cavity. All recessed luminaires are sealed with a gasket or caulk between the housing and the interior of the wall or ceiling covering. MANDATORY

701.4.3.4

Manufacturer’s literature stating compliance with the practice. Verify by documentation review and inspection. When no recessed lights penetrate the thermal envelop indicate so in the verification report.

701.4.4 High -efficacy lighting. A minimum of 50 percent of the total hard-wired lighting fixtures, or the bulbs in those fixtures, qualify as high efficacy or equivalent. MANDATORY

None Verify by inspection and counting total number of fixtures and number of compliant fixtures.

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1.4.

5 701.4.5 Boiler supply piping. Boiler supply piping in unconditioned space is insulated. MANDATORY


702.2.1 ICC IECC analysis. Energy efficiency features are implemented to achieve energy cost performance that meets the ICC IECC. A documented analysis using software in accordance with ICC IECC, Section 405, or ICC IECC Section 506.2 through 506.5, applied as defined in the ICC IECC, is required.

REQUIRED: RemRate NGBS report, RESCheck, or other report showing the thermal envelop meets the requirement.

Verify by documentation review. Inspect to confirm that the parameters used in the analysis are consistent with the construction.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


702.

2.2 702.2.2 Energy cost performance analy sis. Energy cost savings levels above the ICC IECC are

determined through an analysis that includes improvements in building envelope, air infiltration, heating system efficiencies, cooling system efficiencies, duct sealing, water heating system efficiencies, lighting, and appliances.

(1) 15 percent (2) 30 percent (3) 40 percent (4) 50 percent

702.2.2

All buildings using this path must have their performance claim supported by REM/Rate or Energy Gauge output reports prepared and signed by a qualified energy professional. The 2009 IECC must be the basis for this analysis.

If performance claim is 1) not to be supported by performance test data, and 2) not to be based on energy recovery; then 1) the qualified professional must assume in their energy simulation an SLA of 0.00036 for the infiltration, and 2) no energy recovery for the ventilation system for either the REM/Rate or Energy Gauge output report.

Test results must be submitted for performance claims which use an infiltration better than SLA = 0.00036, or for buildings that claim points for simulate energy recovery. RemRate now has a NGBS report that demonstrates compliance with this practice. REQUIRED: Energy analysis report.

Verify REM/Rate or Energy Gauge results are based on parameters appropriate for this building and support the performance claim.

For multi-family buildings, the energy analysis should be done for the worst case unit of each floor plan. If the building has central HVAC then a whole building analysis may be done.

For high-rise residential, Chapter 5 of the 2009 IECC requires commercial buildings meet either the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1 or IECC Chapter 5. Therefore, the modeling can be done to either IECC Chapter 5 or ASHRAE 90.1. For multi-unit buildings with limited common space, an energy analysis is not required for the common space provided that all the construction elements of the common space (e.g. wall R-value, fenestration, etc.) and the HVAC equipment efficiencies are consistent with the construction of the units. A copy of the analysis needs to be submitted with the verification report. The NGBS specific report should be sent if the analysis was done with RemRate.

Question: Can a Verifier use discretion in selecting a unit to data model In REMRate for determination of percentage it exceeds 2006 IECC Section 404?

Answer: A Verifier with appropriate experience may use their professional judgment to select the worst case unit(s) for modeling for a multi-unit building. The worst case unit for each floor plan (e.g. 1 bed room, 2 bed room, etc) should be modeled and the building rated for the poorest performing unit.

Question: In a large multifamily project, does each unit have to be tested for HERS Index in order to take the Performance Path or can sampling be done?

Answer: Testing is not required for the performance path. But if testing is not done the default values for infiltration must be used. If testing is done the tested value can be used and usually results in better performance. For Multi-unit buildings using the performance path, it is expected that each unit each unit exceed the 2009 IECC (HERS is not used) by the percentage for which points are given. Since in multi-unit buildings there are usually obvious worse case units (e.g. top floor), then if the worst case complies it is reasonable to expect that all the units would comply. The worst case analysis should be done for each type of unit (e.g. one bedroom, two bedroom, different floor plans, etc). Some professional judgment needs to be used in determining the worst case and how many scenarios need to be analyzed. The intent is to be sure each unit complies with the practice at the same level for which the points are awarded. See the general information on multi-unit buildings regarding sampling.

Question: Does a home seeking Gold level certification via the performance path need to receive 80 points (40% above IECC) in 702.2?

Answer: No. The total points from all the practices in chapter 7 must be at least 80 for gold certification but the minimum for 702.2 (when using the performance path) is 30 points (15% above IECC).

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3.1.

1 703.1.1 UA improvement. The total building thermal envelope UA is less than or equal to the total UA resulting from the U-factors provided in Table 703.1.1(a). Where insulation is used to achieve the UA improvement, the insulation installation is in accordance with Grade 1 requirements as graded by a third-party. Total UA is documented using a RESCheck or equivalent report to verify the baseline and the UA improvement.

703.1.1

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Table 703.1.1(a) Equivalent U-Factors a

Climate Zone

Fenestration U-Factor

Skylight U-Factor

Ceiling U-Factor

Frame Wall U-Factor

Mass Wall

U-Factorb

Floor U-Factor

Basement Wall

U-Factor

Crawlspace Wall U-

Factorc

1 1.20 0.75 0.035 0.082 0.197 0.064 0.360 0.477

2 0.65 0.75 0.035 0.082 0.165 0.064 0.360 0.477

3 0.50 0.65 0.035 0.082 0.141 0.047 0.910 0.136

4 except Marine

0.35 0.60 0.030 0.082 0.141 0.047 0.059 0.065

5 and Marine 4

0.35 0.60 0.030 0.057 0.082 0.033 0.059 0.065

6 0.35 0.60 0.026 0.057 0.060 0.033 0.050 0.065

7 and 8 0.35 0.60 0.026 0.057 0.057 0.028 0.050 0.065

a. Non-fenestration U-factors shall be obtained from measurement, calculation, or an approved source. b. Where more the half the insulation is on the interior, the mass wall U-factors is a maximum of 0.17 in Zone 1,

0.14 in Zone 2, 0.12 in Zone 3, 0.10 in Zone 4 except in Marine, and the same as the frame wall U-factor in Marine Zone 4 and Zones 5 through 8.

c. Basement wall U-factor of 0.360 in warm-humid locations.

Table 703.1.1(b) Points for Improvement in Total Building Thermal En velope UA

Minimum UA Improvement

Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS

0 to <5% 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

5% to <10% 0 2 3 4 7 5 3 4

10% to <15% 0 6 8 8 11 12 9 10

15% to <20% 0 10 12 13 16 14 11 12

≥20% 2 14 17 18 18 17 14 16

RESCheck 4.0.1 or other equivalent analysis method showing the percent improvement for UA improvement over an analysis using the values provided in Table 703.1.1(a). Documentation of 3rd party insulation installation grading results

Verify documentation provided supports points claimed. If UA improvements are due to insulation, verify Grade 1 insulation installation is documented.

Note: building must have insulation installation grading of Grade 1 if insulation is being used to achieve UA improvements. Make sure 3rd party insulation installation supports a Grade 1. Approve points per Table 703.1.1(b)

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3.1.

2 703.1.2 Insulation installation . The insulation installation is graded by a third party and is in accordance with Sections 703.1.2.1, 703.1.2.2, and/or 703.1.2.3 as applicable. Grade 3 insulation installation is not permitted. Grade 2 installation is permitted only for bronze level buildings.

(Points not awarded in this section if already awar ded under Section 703.1.1.)

703.1.2

Table 703.1.2 Insulation Installation Grades

Grade POINTS 1 7 2 4

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Documentation of 3rd party insulation installation grading results.

Verify grading results support points claimed (Be sure grading is consistent with Section 703.1.2.1, 2 and 3. There are many specifics that must be checked for Grade 1). Passing the local code inspection for insulation is not a substitute for grading. For a multi-unit building, if points are being awarded for 704.6.1 via a sampling approach, that sampling inspection can be used to meet 703.1.2 provided that each sampled unit achieves at least the minimum grade for which points are expected. Although the 704.6.1 approach does not require grading of each unit, the Verifier should observe the insulation in each unit as part of verification of other practices and make sure the installation quality is consistent with the units actually graded.

Question: Does 703.1.2 apply to all insulation or just one component? For example, if attic gets grade 1 but the wall are only grade 2 can grade 1 points be awarded?

Answer: T he complete insulation installation including walls ceilings and floors must be graded. The points are awarded based on the area grade that earns the fewest points.

70

3.1.

2.1 703.1.2.1 Grade 1 and Grade 2 insulation installations are in accordance with the following:

(1) Grading applies to field-installed insulation products.

(2) Grading applies to ceilings, walls, floors, band joists, rim joists, conditioned attics basements and crawlspaces, except as specifically noted.

(3) Inspection is conducted before insulation is covered.

(4) Air-permeable insulation is enclosed on all six sides and is in substantial contact with the sheathing material on one or more sides (interior or exterior) of the cavity. Air permeable insulation in ceilings is not required to be enclosed when the insulation is installed in substantial contact with the surfaces it is intended to insulate.

703.1.2.1 70

3.1.

2.2 703.1.2.2 Grade 1 installation is in accordance with the following:

(1) Cavity insulation uniformly fills each cavity side-to-side and top-to-bottom, without substantial gaps or voids around obstructions (such as blocking or bridging).

(2) Cavity insulation compression or incomplete fill amounts to 2 percent or less, presuming the compressed or incomplete areas are a minimum of 70 percent of the intended fill thickness; occasional small gaps are acceptable.

(3) Exterior rigid insulation has substantial contact with the structural framing members or sheathing materials and is tightly fitted at joints.

(4) Cavity insulation is split, installed, and/or fitted tightly around wiring and other services.

(5) Exterior sheathing is not visible from the interior through gaps in the cavity insulation.

(6) Faced batt insulation is permitted to have side-stapled tabs, provided the tabs are stapled neatly with no buckling, and provided the batt is compressed only at the edges of each cavity, to the depth of the tab itself.

(7) Where properly installed, ICFs, SIPs, and other wall systems that provide integral insulation are deemed in compliance with the Grade 1 insulation installation requirements.

(8) Grade 1 insulation meets or exceeds all requirements for Grade 2 insulation.

703.1.2.2

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

1.2.

3 703.1.2.3 Grade 2 installation is in accordance with the following:

(1) A maximum of 2 percent of the surface area of insulation is missing. Compression or incomplete fill amounts to 10 percent or less, presuming the compressed or incomplete areas are a minimum of 70 percent of the intended fill thickness.

(2) In unconditioned basements or unconditioned crawlspaces insulation is installed in substantial contact with the subfloor surfaces.

(a) floor insulation over vented or ambient conditions is enclosed on six sides. (b) floor insulation over unconditioned basements is not required to be enclosed on six sides.

(3) Ceiling insulation is not required to be enclosed when the insulation is installed in substantial contact with the drywall or plywood surfaces it is intended to insulate.

(4) Eave baffles or equivalent construction is installed to prevent wind intrusion.

(5) Installation with occasional installation defects is permitted: gaps around wiring, electrical outlets, plumbing and other intrusions; rounded edges or shoulders.

703.1.2.3 70

3.1.

3 703.1.3 Mass walls. More than 75 percent of the above-grade exterior opaque wall area of the building is mass walls.

703.1.3

Table 703.1.3 Exterior Mass Walls

Mass wall thickness Climate Zone

1-4 5 6 7-8 POINTS

≥3 inch to <6 inch 5 4 3 0 >6 inch 3 2 2 0

None. Inspect above grade walls to verify at least 75% are mass type construction (see definition in NGBS; at least 50% of insulation must be on exterior of wall) and approve points per Table 703.1.3 for the climate zone where the building is located. Wall thickness is based on the thickness of the mass section.

70

3.1.

4 703.1.4 A radiant barrier with an emittance of 0.05 or less is used in the attic. The product is tested in accordance with ASTM C1371 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

703.1.4

Table 703.1.4 Radiant Barriers

Climate Zone POINTS 1 2

2-3 3 4 1

5-8 0

Manufacturer’s literature indicating conformance to ASTM C1371

Verify by inspection for installation of applicable product. Verify by document review compliance with C1371.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

1.5 703.1.5 Building envelope leakage . The maximum building envelope leakage rate is in accordance

with Table 703.1.5 and whole building ventilation is provided in accordance with Section 902.2.1.

703.1.5

Table 703.1.5 Building Envelope Leakage

Max Envelope Leakage Rate

(ACH50)

Climate Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS 5 2 3 3 4 6 7 8 9 4 3 4 5 7 10 12 13 14 3 3 5 6 9 13 15 17 19 2 4 6 8 11 15 18 20 23 1 4 5 8 12 17 19 22 24

Test report showing ACH50. Verify by documentation review. The test should be done following the conditions specified in 701.4.3.2(1). Points here also require points in 902.2.1.

70

3.1.

6.1 703.1.6.1 NFRC-certified (or equivalent) U-factor and SHGC of windows, exterior doors, skylights, and

tubular daylighting devices (TDDs) on an area-weighted average basis are in accordance with Table 703.1.6.1. Area weighted averages are calculated separately for the categories of 1) windows and exterior doors and 2) skylights and tubular daylighting devices (TDDs). Decorative fenestration elements with a combined total maximum area of 15 square feet (1.39 m2) or 10 percent of the total glazing area, whichever is less, are not required to comply with this practice. This practice is MANDATORY for the prescriptive path.

703.1.6.1

Table 703.1.6.1 Fenestration Specifications

Climate Zones

U-Factor SHGC Windows and Exterior Doors (maximum certified ratings)

1 0.65 0.30 2 0.65 0.30 3 0.40 0.30

4 to 8 0.35 Any Skylights and TDDs

(maximum certified ratings) 1 and 2 0.75 0.30

3 0.65 0.30 4 to 8 0.60 Any

Labels on units. Verify by inspection that the windows, doors, etc. have NFRC labels with values in compliance with Table 703.1.6.1. If fenestration elements have varying U-factors and SHG, an area weighted average may be used to determine compliance. For buildings in Climate Zone 1, the maximum U-factor in table 701.4.4.1 is not required.

For buildings (high rise) that are covered by Chapter 5 of the 2006 IECC the following may be used as an alternative to 703.1.6.1. All of the following conditions must be met:

1) The windows must comply with Chapter 5 of the 2006 IECC

2) Either the performance path or the prescriptive path may be used for Chapter 7 but the modeling as noted below must be done if the windows do not meet 703.1.6.1 of the NGBS

3) Using the performance path modeling, an energy model

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


must show that either:

a. For buildings that have individual unit HVAC systems the worst case unit (for each floor plan type) must exceed the 2009 IECC energy cost performance by at least 15%

OR

For buildings that have a central HVAC system that the building must exceed the 2009 IECC energy cost performance by at least 15%

When this is done, include a note of explanation in the report.

703.

1.6.

2 703.1.6.2 The NFRC-certified (or equivalent) U-factor and SHGC of windows, exterior doors, skylights, and tubular daylighting devices (TDDs) are in accordance with Table 703.1.6.2(a), (b), or (c). Decorative fenestration elements with a combined total maximum area of 15 square feet (1.39 m2) or 10 percent of the total glazing area, whichever is less, are not required to comply with this practice.

703.1.6.2

Table 703.1.6.2(a) Enhanced Fenestration Specifications

Climate Zones

U-Factor Windows &

Exterior Doors

SHGC Windows &

Exterior Doors

U-Factor Skylights &

TDD’s

SHGC Skylights & TDD’s

POINTS

1 0.60 0.27 0.70 0.30 10

2 0.60 0.27 0.70 0.30 5

3 0.35 0.30 0.57 0.30 6

4 0.32 0.40 0.55 0.40 2

5 0.30 Any 0.55 Any 5

6 0.30 Any 0.55 Any 5

7 0.30 Any 0.55 Any 5

8 0.30 Any 0.55 Any 5 For Climate Zones 5-8 an equivalent energy performance is permitted based on either (1) windows with a U-factor = 0.31 and an SHGC ≥ 0.35, or, a U-factor = 0.32 and an SHGC ≥ 0.40 or (2) fenestration meeting the ENERGY STAR Equivalent Energy Performance requirements.

Table 703.1.6.2(b) Enhanced Fenestration Specifications

Climate Zone

U-Factor Windows &

Exterior Doors

SHGC Windows &

Exterior Doors


TDD’s


POINTS

1 0.40 0.25 0.50 0.30 13

2 0.40 0.25 0.50 0.30 9

3 0.30 0.25 0.50 0.35 9

4 0.28 0.40 0.50 0.40 4

5 0.25 Any 0.50 Any 8

6 0.25 Any 0.50 Any 9

7 0.25 Any 0.50 Any 9

8 0.25 Any 0.50 Any 9

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Table 703.1.6.2I Enhanced Fenestration Specifications

Climate Zones

U-Factor Windows &

Exterior Doors

SHGC Windows &

Exterior Doors


TDD’s


POINTS

4 0.25 0.40 0.40 0.40 5

5 0.22 Any 0.40 Any 9

Labels on units. Verify by inspection that the windows, doors, etc. have NFRC labels with values in compliance the table/climate zone for which points are claimed.

70

3.2.

1 703.2.1 Combination space heating and water heating system (combo system) is installed using either a coil from the water heater connected to an air handler to provide heat for the building or dwelling unit, or a space heating boiler using an indirect-fired water heater. Devices have a combined annual efficiency of 0.80.

703.2.1

Manufactu’er’s specification for combo system showing combined annual efficiency of at least 0.80.

Verify installed combo system has minimum combined efficiency of 0.80

Question: Does a hydronic system count? Answer: If the “boiler” for the hydronic heating system also heats the hot water service, then it would meet the definition of a “combo” unit and four (4) points could be awarded if the combined Annual Efficiency of the “combo” unit is at least 0.80.

70

3.2.

2 703.2.2 Furnace and/or boiler efficiency is in accordance with one of the following:

(Where multiple systems are used, points awarded ba sed on the system with the lowest efficiency.)

703.2.2

(1) Gas and propane heaters:

Table 703.2.2(1) Gas and Propane Heaters

AFUE Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 POINTS

≥90% AFUE 0 5 6 7 9 9 10 10 ≥92% AFUE 0 5 8 9 11 11 12 12 ≥94% AFUE 0 5 8 10 13 13 13 14 ≥96% AFUE 1 6 10 11 14 14 15 16 ≥98% AFUE 1 6 10 13 15 15 16 17

(2) Oil furnace:

Table 703.2.2(2) Oil Furnace

AFUE Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

≥85% AFUE 0 1 3 3 7 7 ≥90% AFUE 0 2 5 8 11 14

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


(3) Gas boiler:

Table 703.2.2(3) Gas Boiler

AFUE Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

≥85% AFUE 0 9 16 18 17 16 ≥90% AFUE 1 10 17 19 18 17 ≥94% AFUE 1 10 18 19 19 17 ≥96% AFUE 1 10 18 20 19 18

(4) Oil boiler:

Table 703.2.2(4) Oil Boiler

AFUE Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

≥85% AFUE 0 9 16 18 17 16 ≥90% AFUE 1 10 17 19 18 17

Manufacturer’s specification for equipment that is installed. Verify by inspection literature, label or equipment plate to verify efficiency. Approve points for climate zone per table. Approve lower value of points if multiple units with different efficiency are installed.

70

3.2.

3 703.2.3 Heat pump heating efficiency is in accordance with Table 703.2.3. Refrigerant charge is verified for compliance with manufacturer’s instructions. (Where multiple systems are used, points awarded ba sed on the system with the lowest efficiency.)

703.2.3

Table 703.2.3 Heat Pump Heating

Efficiency Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6-8a POINTS

8.2 HSPF (11.5 EER)

0 1 2 4 5 5

9.0 HSPF (12.5 EER)

0 3 6 9 12 12

9.5 HSPF 0 4 7 12 16 16 10.0 HSPF 1 4 9 15 19 19

a. Equipment designed to operate in cold climates is recommended to minimize use of resistance heat when installing a heat pump in Zones 6-8.


ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

2.4 703.2.4 Cooling efficiency is in accordance with Table 703.2.4. Refrigerant charge is verified for

compliance with manufacturer’s instructions.


703.2.4

Table 703.2.4 Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Cooling


1 2 3 4 5 6 7-8 POINTS

≥14 SEER (11.5 EER) 4 3 1 1 0 0 0 ≥15 SEER (12.5 EER) 7 5 2 1 1 0 0 ≥17 SEER (12.5 EER) 12 8 4 2 1 1 0 ≥19 SEER (12.5 EER) 16 11 6 3 2 1 0 ≥21 SEER 19 14 7 3 2 1 0


70

3.2.

5 703.2.5 Water source cooling and heating efficiency is in accordance with Table 703.2.5.

703.2.5 Table 703.2.5 Water Source Cooling And Heating


1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

≥15 EER, ≥4.0 COP 14 18 22 30 37 37


70

3.2.

6 703.2.6 Ground source heat pump is installed by a Certified Geothermal Service Contractor in accordance with Table 703.2.6.


703.2.6

Table 703.2.6 Ground source heat pump a


1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

14.1 EER 3.3 COP 12 14 16 22 27 27 15 EER 3.5 COP 14 16 19 25 31 31 16.2 EER 3.6 COP 17 18 20 27 33 33 24 EER 4.3 COP 29 28 29 35 42 42 28 EER 4.8 COP 32 32 32 40 47 47 a. The ground loop is sized to account for the ground conductance and the expected

minimum incoming water temperature to achieve rated performance.


ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

2.7 703.2.7 ENERGY STAR, or equivalent, ceiling fans are installed.

(Points awarded per building.)

703.2.7

Manufacturer’s literature. Verify by inspection and document review.

703.

2.8 703.2.8 Whole-building or whole-dwelling unit fan(s) with insulated louvers and a sealed enclosure is

installed. (Points awarded per building.)

703.2.8

Table 703.2.8 Whole dwelling unit fan

Climate Zone 1-3 4-6 7-8

POINTS 5 3 0


70

3.2.

9 703.2.9 In multi-unit buildings, an advanced electric and fossil fuel submetering system is installed to monitor electricity and fossil fuel consumption for each unit. The device provides consumption information on a monthly or near real-time basis. The information is available to the occupants at a minimum on a monthly basis.

703.2.9

Manufacturer’s literature. Verify by inspection and document review that information will be provided monthly to occupants.

70

3.3.

1 703.3.1 All space heating is provided by a system(s) that does not include air ducts.

703.3.1 Table 703.3.1 Ductless heating system

Climate Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6-8

POINTS 0 4 7 7 6 2


70

3.3.

2 703.3.2 All space cooling is provided by a system(s) that does not include air ducts.

703.3.2 Table 703.3.2 Ductless cooling system

Climat e Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6-8

POINTS 10 7 3 1 0 0


ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

3.3 703.3.3 Ductwork is in accordance with all of the following:

(1) Building cavities are not used as return ductwork. (2) Heating and cooling ducts and mechanical equipment are installed within the conditioned building

space. (3) Ductwork is not installed in exterior walls.

703.3.3

Table 703.3.3 Ducts

Climate Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6-8

POINTS 11 11 11 8 4 3


70

3.3.

4 703.3.4 Duct Leakage. The entire central HVAC duct system, including air handlers and register boots, is tested by a third party for total leakage at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) and maximum air leakage is equal to or less than 6 percent of the system design flow rate.

703.3.4

Table 703.3.4 Duct Leakage

Ductwork location Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6-8 POINTS

ductwork entirely outside the building’s thermal envelope

8 9 8 6 3 2

ductwork entirely inside the building’s thermal envelope

3 3 3 2 1 1

ductwork inside and outside the building’s thermal envelope

5 6 5 4 2 2

3rd party duct leakage test report. Verify by documentation review.

70

3.4.

1 703.4.1 Water heater Energy Factor (EF) is in accordance with the following: (Where multiple systems are used, points awarded ba sed on the system with the lowest efficiency.)

703.4.1

(1) Gas water heating Table 703.4.1(1)(a) Gas Water Heating

Energy Factor Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 POINTS

0.67 to <0.80 4 4 3 2 3 2 1 1 ≥0.80 7 7 5 4 5 4 2 2

Table 703.4.1(1)(b) Gas Water Heating

(Storage with input rate greater than 75,000 Btu/h or instantaneous input rate greater than 200,000 Bt u/h)

Thermal Efficiency Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 POINTS

≥0.86 7 7 5 4 5 4 2 2

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


(2) Electric water heating Table 703.4.1(2)

Electric Water Heating

Energy Factor or Thermal Efficiency

Climate Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS ≥0.95 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

(3) Oil water heating Table 703.4.1(3)

Oil Water Heating

Size (gallons)

Energy Factor

Climate Zone 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS 30 to <50 0.59 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ≥50 0.59 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L

(4) Heat pump water heating Table 703.4.1(4)

Heat Pump Water Heating

Energy Factor Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 POINTS

1.5 to <2.0 14 11 11 11 11 4 4 4 2.0 to <2.2 19 16 16 15 15 6 6 6

2.2 20 17 17 17 16 6 6 6

Manufactu’er’s literature. Verify by documentation review and inspection.

Question: Where can t“e “energy fac”or” for an electric water heater be found?

Answer: The energy factor for an electric heater should be visible on a sticker on the heater itself wi“h ”EF” followed by a number. If the EF is not on the heater itself, then the builder should provide the Verifier with manufactu’er’s literature that includes the EF for the installed heater model.

Question: Can a tankless water heater get points in is that just for tanks?

Answer: Tankless heaters may get points if they meet the efficiency criteria in the tables.

70

3.4.

2 703.4.2 Desuperheater is installed by a qualified installer or is pre-installed in the factory.

703.4.2 Table 703.4.2 Desuperheater Climate Zone

1 2-5 6-8 POINTS

17 8 4

Manufacturer’s literature showing factory installation or invoice/statement of work by qualified installer.

Verify points claimed match climate zone and that documentation supports claim that desuperheater was properly installed.

70

3.4.

3 703.4.3 Drain-water heat recovery system is installed in multi-family units. (Points awarded per building.)

703.4.3


703.

4.4 703.4.4 Indirect-fired water heater storage tanks heated from boiler systems are installed.


ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

4.5 703.4.5 Solar water heater. SRCC (Solar Rating & Certification Corporation) OG 300 rated, or

equivalent, solar domestic water heating system is installed. Solar Energy Factor (SEF) as defined by SRCC is in accordance with Table 703.4.5.

703.4.5

Table 703.4.5 Solar Hot Water Systems

SEF Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 POINTS

SEF 1.3 15 10 11 12 12 10 7 4 SEF 1.51 18 12 14 14 15 12 8 5 SEF 1.81 21 14 16 17 18 14 10 6 SEF 2.31 24 17 19 20 22 16 12 7 SEF 3.01 27 19 21 23 25 18 13 8

Manufactu’er’s literature for installed equipment. Verify by inspection that equipment literature, label or equipment plate to verify SEF of installed equipment. Approve points for climate zone per table.

70

3.5.

1 703.5.1 Hard-wired lighting. Hard-wired lighting is in accordance with one of the following:

703.5.1 (1) A minimum percent of the total hard-wired luminaires qualify as ENERGY STAR or equivalent.

Table 703.5.1 Hard-wired Lighting

Minimum percent of fixtures

Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS

75% 5 4 3 3 3 2 2 1

95% 9 6 5 4 4 3 2 1

(2) A minimum of 80 percent of the exterior lighting wattage has a minimum efficiency of 40 lumens per watt or is solar-powered.

None. Verify by inspection. Percentages are based on a count of Energy Star fixtures; fixtures with screwbase CFL bulbs do not qualify.

70

3.5.

2 703.5.2 Recessed luminaires. The number of recessed luminaires that penetrates the thermal envelope is less than 1 per 400 square feet (37.16 m2) of total conditioned floor area and they are in accordance with Section 701.4.3.4.

703.5.2

None. Verify by inspection. Count number of recessed fixtures penetrating the thermal envelop and divide by total conditioned square footage.

70

3.5.

3 703.5.3 Appliances. ENERGY STAR or equivalent appliance(s) are installed:

703.5.3 (1) Refrigerator

Table 703.5.3(1) Refrigerator

Climate Zone

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

POINTS

3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

(2) Dishwasher (3) Washing machine

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Manufacturer’s literature or labels. Verify by documentation review that installed appliances comply.

70

3.5.

4 703.5.4 Induction cooktop. Induction cooktop is installed.


703.

6.1 703.6.1 Sun-tempered design. Building orientation, sizing of glazing, and design of overhangs are in

accordance with all of the following:

(1) The long side (or one side if of equal length) of the building faces within 20 degrees of true south.

(2) Vertical glazing area is between 5 and 7 percent of the gross conditioned floor area on the south face [also see Section 703.6.1(8)].

(3) Vertical glazing area is less than 2 percent of the gross conditioned floor area on the west face, and glazing is ENERGY STAR compliant or equivalent.

(4) Vertical glazing area is less than 4 percent of the gross conditioned floor area on the east face, and glazing is ENERGY STAR compliant or equivalent.

(5) Vertical glazing area is less than 8 percent of the gross conditioned floor area on the north face, and glazing is ENERGY STAR compliant or equivalent.

(6) Skylights, where installed, are in accordance with the following:

(a) shades and insulated wells are used, and all glazing is ENERGY STAR compliant or equivalent

(b) horizontal skylights are less than 0.5 percent of finished ceiling area (c) sloped skylights on slopes facing within 45 degrees of true south, east, or west are less than

1.5 percent of the finished ceiling area

(7) Overhangs or adjustable canopies or awnings or trellises provide shading on south-facing glass for the appropriate climate zone in accordance with Table 703.6.1(7):

Table 703.6.1(7) South-Facing Window Overhang Depth

Vertical distance between bottom of overhang

and top of window sill

≤7’4" ≤6’ 4 ≤5’4" ≤4’4" ≤3’4"

Clim

ate

Zon

e

1 & 2 & ’ 2 » 8’ 2 » 8’ 2 » 4’ 2 » 0’ 2 » 0 »

4 & 5 & ’ 2 » 4’ 2 » 4’ 2 » 0’ 2 » 0’ 1 » 8 »

7 & ’ 2 » 0’ 1 » 8’ 1 » 8’ 1 » 4’ 1 » 0 »

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm (8) The south face windows have a SHGC of 0.40 or higher.

(9) Return air or transfer grilles/ducts are in accordance with Section 704.3.

703.6.1

Calculation showing glazing percentage per the practice. Verify by inspection and documentation review that all 9 sub-practices have been met. Note: this practice is not available in Zone 1,2, or 3 due to the conflict with 703.1.6.1.

70

3.6.

2 703.6.2 Window shading. Automated solar protection is installed to provide shading for windows.


ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


703.

6.3 703.6.3 Passive cooling design. Passive cooling design features are in accordance with three or

more of the following: Points for three items:

Points for one additional item:

703.6.3

(1) Exterior shading is provided on east and west windows using one or a combination of the following: (a) vine-covered trellises with the vegetation separated a minimum of 1 foot (305 mm) from face

of building (b) moveable awnings or louvers (c) covered porches (d) attached or detached conditioned/unconditioned enclosed space that provides full shade of

east and west windows (e.g., detached garage, shed, or building)

(2) Overhangs are installed to provide shading on south-facing glazing in accordance with Section 703.6.1(7). (Points not awarded if points are taken under Secti on 703.6.1.)

(3) Windows and/or venting skylights are located to facilitate cross ventilation.

(4) Solar reflective roof or radiant barrier is installed in climate zones 1, 2, or 3 and roof material achieves a 3-year aged criteria of 0.50.

(5) Internal exposed thermal mass is a minimum of three inches (76 mm) in thickness. Thermal mass consists of concrete, brick, and/or tile fully adhered to a masonry base or other masonry material in accordance with one or a combination of the following:

(a) A minimum of 1 square foot (0.09 m2) of exposed thermal mass of floor per 3 square feet (2.8 m2) of gross finished floor area.

(b) A minimum of 3 square feet (2.8 m2) of exposed thermal mass in interior walls or elements per square foot (0.09 m2) of gross finished floor area.

Roofing material is installed with a minimum 0.75 inch (19 mm) continuous air space offset from the roof deck from eave to ridge.

When thermal mass is claimed provide calculation for ratio of exposed thermal mass to conditioned floor space.

Verify by inspection at least 3 of the 6 designated items are installed or provided.

Verify that any additional designated items are installed or provided. Approve 3 points for three items and 1 point for one additional item.

70

3.6.

4 703.6.4 Passive solar heating design . In addition to the sun-tempered design features in Section 703.6.1, all of the following are implemented:

703.6.4

(1) Additional glazing, no greater than 12 percent, is permitted on the south wall. This additional glazing is in accordance with the requirements of Section 703.6.1.

(2) Additional thermal mass for any room with south-facing glazing of more than 7 percent of the finished floor area is provided in accordance with the following:

(a) Thermal mass is solid and a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm) in thickness. Where two thermal mass materials are layered together (e.g., ceramic tile on concrete base) to achieve the appropriate thickness, they are fully adhered to (touching) each other.

(b)Thermal mass directly exposed to sunlight is provided in accordance with the following minimum ratios: (i) Above latitude 35 degrees: 5 square feet (0.465 m2) of thermal mass for every 1 square foot (0.0929 m2) of south-facing glazing. (ii) Latitude 30 degrees to 35 degrees: 5.5 square feet (0.51 m2) of thermal mass for every

1 square foot (0.0929 m2) of south-facing glazing. (iii) Latitude 25 degrees to 30 degrees: 6 square feet (0.557 m2) of thermal mass for every

1 square foot (0.0929 m2) of south-facing glazing.

(b) Thermal mass not directly exposed to sunlight is permitted to be used to achieve thermal mass

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


requirements of Section 703.6.4 (2) based on a ratio of 40 square feet (3.72 m2) of thermal mass for every 1 square foot (0.0929 m2) of south-facing glazing.

(3) In addition to return air or transfer grilles/ducts required by Section 703.6.1(9), provisions for forced airflow to adjoining areas are implemented as needed.

Calculations for ratio of south glazing to floor area and ratio of exposed thermal mass to conditioned floor space.

Verify by documentation review and inspection. All three sub-practices must be met.

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4.2.

1 704.2.1 Occupancy sensors. Occupancy sensors are installed on indoor lights, and photo or motion sensors are installed on outdoor lights to control lighting. (1) 25 percent of lighting (2) 50 percent of lighting

704.2.1

None. Verify by inspection. Percentage is based on a count.

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4.2.

2 704.2.2 TDDs and skylights. Tubular daylighting device (TDD) or a skylight with sealed, insulated, low-E glass is installed in rooms without windows. (Points awarded per building.)

704.2.2


Question: The building has 2x2 windows in each apartment bedroom closet to let in natural light & help avoid the use of electricity during daylight hours. Would this comply for points here?

Answer: Assuming that this is a multistory building where it is not possible to have a TDD or skylight in each unit, then these windows meet the intent of the practice for day lighting and points are appropriate provided this is installed in each unit. But these windows will need to meet the mandatory fenestration requirements for the climate zone if the prescriptive path is being used.

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4.2.

3 704.2.3 Lighting outlets. Occupancy sensors are installed for a minimum of 80 percent of hard-wired lighting outlets.

704.2.3

None. Verify by inspection. Percentage is based on a count.

704.

3 704.3 Return d ucts and transfer grilles. Return ducts or transfer grilles are installed in every room with a door. Return ducts or transfer grilles are not required for bathrooms, kitchens, closets, pantries, and laundry rooms.

704.3

None. Verify by inspection that return ducts or transfer grills are in all required rooms.

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4.4.

1 704.4.1 HVAC contractor and service technician are certified by a nationally or regionally recognized program (e.g., North American Technician Excellence, Inc. (NATE), Air Conditioning Contractors of Americas Quality Assured Program (ACCA/QA), Building Performance Institute (BPI), Radiant Panel Association, or manufacturers’ training program).

704.4.1

Certificate Verify by reviewing certificate.

704.

4.2 704.4.2 Performance of the heating and/or cooling system is verified by the HVAC contractor in

accordance with all of the following: (1) Start-up procedure is performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. (2) Refrigerant charge is verified by super-heat and/or sub-cooling method. (3) Burner is set to fire at input level listed on nameplate. (4) Air handler setting/fan speed is set in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. (5) Total airflow is within 10 percent of design flow. (6) Total external system static does not exceed equipment capability at rated airflow.

704.4.2

Start up checklist signed by contractor. Verify by document review. Ensure all applicable practices have been signed off as complying.

704.

4.3 704.4.3 Manufacturer’s label or printed specifications for sealed air handler (except furnaces) indicates

the leakage is less than or equal to 2 percent of design airflow at a pressure of 1 inch of water (250 Pa). Air handlers are tested with inlets, outlets, and condensate drain ports sealed and filter box in place.

704.4.3

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Manufacturer’s specifications or label on unit. Verify by documentation review. Ensure installed unit is same a specification sheet.

704.

5.1 704.5.1 Third-party on-site inspection is conducted to verify compliance with all of the following, as

applicable. Minimum of two inspections are performed: one inspection after insulation is installed and prior to covering, and another inspection upon completion of the building. Where multiple buildings or dwelling units of the same model are built by the same builder, a representative sample inspection of a minimum of 15 percent of the buildings or dwelling units is permitted.

(1) Ducts are installed in accordance with the ICC IRC or IMC and ducts are sealed. (2) Building envelope air sealing is installed. (3) Insulation is installed in accordance with Section 703.1.2. (4) Windows, skylights, and doors are flashed, caulked, and sealed in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions and in accordance with Section 701.4.3.

704.5.1

None. Verify by inspection that all 4 sub-practices have been met.

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4.5.

2.1 704.5.2.1 Building envelope leakage testing.

(1) A blower door test and a visual inspection are performed as described in 701.4.3.2. (2) Third-party verification is completed.

704.5.2.1

Blower door test report. 701.4.3.2 visual inspection report. Verify by documentation review. Reports do not have be done by a 3rd party but additional points are available when they are done by a 3rd party. Both testing and visual inspection are needed. For multi-family buildings or multiples of the same single-family building, a representative sample test of a minimum of 15% of the dwelling units is permitted. If sampling was used in lieu of an actual test – note this in the comments column and provide address/dates of last 3 tests.

704.5.2.2 70

4.5.

2.2 704.5.2.2 HVAC airflow testing. Balanced HVAC airflows are demonstrated by flow hood or other

acceptable flow measurement tool by a third party. Test results are in accordance with both of the following:

(1) Measured flow at each supply and return register is within 25 percent of design flow. (2) Total airflow is within 10 percent of design flow.

Report signed by qualified 3rd party showing design and actual flows at each supply and return indicating compliance with balanced flow requirement.

Verify report addresses all supplies and returns and flows are within required tolerances. For multi-family buildings or multiples of the same single-family building, a representative sample test of a minimum of 15% of the dwelling units is permitted. If sampling was used in lieu of an actual test – note this in the comments column and provide address/dates of last 3 tests.

Question: Is sampling permitted for this practice? Answer: For multi-unit buildings or multiples of the same single-family building built by the same trade contractors & supervised by the same superintendent, sampling for this is permitted following a RESNET type sampling protocol.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


704.

5.3 704.5.3 Insulating hot water pipes. Insulation with a minimum thermal resistance (R-value) of at least

R-3 is applied to the following, as applicable:

(a) piping larger than 3/4-inch outside diameter (b) piping serving more than one dwelling unit (c) piping branches serving kitchen sinks (d) piping located outside the conditioned space (e) piping from the water heater to a distribution manifold (f) piping located under a floor slab (g) buried piping (h) piping in recirculation systems other than demand recirculation systems (i) all other piping except the piping that meets the length requirements of Table 704.5.3

Table 704.5.3 Maximum Pipe Run Length

Nominal Pipe Diameter of largest pipe in run (inches)

Maximum pipe length (feet)a

3/8 30

1/2 20

3/4 10 a. Total length of all piping from the source of hot water (either a water heater or distribution

manifold (or tee) on a trunk line or a recirculation loop) to a point of use.

704.5.3


705.1 Energy consumption control. A whole-building or whole-dwelling unit device is installed that controls or monitors energy consumption.

(1) programmable communicating thermostat (2) energy-monitoring device (3) energy management control system

Manufactu’er’s product specification(s). Verify by documentation review and inspection installation of required device.

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5.2 705.2 Renewable energy service plan. Renewable energy service plan is provided as follows:

(1) Builder selects a renewable energy service plan provided by the local electrical utility for interim (temporary) electric service. The builder’s local administrative office has renewable energy service.

(2) The buyer of the building selects one of the following renewable energy service plans provided by the utility prior to occupancy of the building with a minimum two-year commitment.

(a) less than half of the dwelling’s projected electricity and gas use is provided by renewable energy (b) half or more of the of the dwelling’s projected electricity and gas use is provided by renewable

energy

705.2

(1) Evidence (e.g., utility bills) builder has selected renewable energy service for both construction and local office for temporary electric service during construction.

(1) Verify by documentation review buil’er’s use of renewable service for both construction and local office.

(2) Service agreement that owner has selected renewable energy service plan for permanent service after completion.

(2) Verify by documentation review the ow’er’s selection of renewable service.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


705.

3 705.3 Smart Appliances and Systems. Smart appliances and systems are installed as follows:

(1) Refrigerator (2) Freezer (3) Dishwasher (4) Clothes Dryer (5) Clothes Washer (6) Room Air Conditioner (7) HVAC Systems (8) Service Hot Water Heating Systems

705.3

Manufacture’s literature or label. Verify by documentation review that the appliances respond to input from the energy provider or energy management system. Inspect to verify appliance installation includes activation of the smart systems.

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5.4.

1 705.4.1 Pool, spa, and water features equipped with filtration pumps as follows:

(1) Two-speed pump(s) is installed. (2) Electronically controlled variable-speed pump(s) is installed (efficiency of 90 percent or greater).

705.4.1

Manufacturer’s literature. Verify by inspection and documentation review that installed pump(s) complies.

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5.4.

2 705.4.2 Sump pump(s) with electrically commutated motors (ECMs) or permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors is installed (efficiency of 90 percent or greater).

705.4.2

Manufacturer’s literature. Verify by inspection and documentation review that installed pump(s) complies.

705.5 Additional renewable energy options . Renewable energy system(s) is installed on the property (e.g., solar photovoltaic panels, building integrated photovoltaic system, wind energy system, on-site micro-hydro power system, active solar space heating system, solar thermal hydronic heating system, photovoltaic hybrid heating system). (Points awarded per 100 W of system rating per 2,00 0 square feet of total conditioned floor area of the buildin g.)

Manufacturer’s literature or installer certification showing number of watts produced by installed system.

Verify by inspection system is installed and approve 1 point per 100 watts (round down to nearest 100 watt) based on manufacturers rating. Points for a multi-unit building are to be based the average watts/unit and the average unit square footage.

Question: Is there a maximum number of points that can be earned for this practice?

Answer: There is no maximum on the number of points for PV.


WATER EFFICIENCY

REQUIREMENT


801.

1 801.1 Indoor hot water usage. Indoor hot water supply system is in accordance with one of the practices listed in items (1) through (5). The maximum water volume from the source of hot water to the termination of the fixture supply is determined in accordance with Tables 801.1(1) or 801.1(2). The maximum pipe length from the source of hot water to the termination of the fixture supply is 50 feet.

(Where more than one water heater is used or where more than one type of hot water supply system, including multiple circulation loops, is us ed, points are awarded only for the system that qualifies for the minimum number of points.)

(Systems with circulation loops are eligible for po ints only if pumps are demand controlled. Circulation systems with timers or aquastats and co nstant-on circulation systems are not eligible to receive points.)

(Points awarded only if the pipes are insulated in accordance with Section 704.5.3.)

801.1

(1) The maximum volume from the water heater to the termination of the fixture supply at furthest fixture is 128 ounces (1 gallon or 3.78 liters).

(2) The maximum volume from the water heater to the termination of the fixture supply at furthest fixture is 64 ounces (0.5 gallon or 1.89 liters).

(3) The maximum volume from the water heater to the termination of the fixture supply at furthest fixture is 32 ounces (0.25 gallon or 0.945 liters).

(4) A demand controlled hot water priming pump is installed on the main supply pipe of the circulation loop and the maximum volume from this supply pipe to the furthest fixture is 24 ounces (0.19 gallons or 0.71 liters).

(a) The volume in the circulation loop (supply) from the water heater or boiler to the branch for the furthest fixture is no more than 128 ounces (1 gallon or 3.78 liters).

(5) A central hot water recirculation system is implemented in multi-unit buildings in which the hot water line distance from the recirculating loop to the engineered parallel piping system (i.e., manifold system) is less than 30 feet (9,144 mm) and the parallel piping to the fixture fittings contains a maximum of 64 ounces (1.89 liters) (115.50 cubic inches) (0.50 gallons).

(6) Tankless water heater(s) with at least 0.5 gallon (1.89 liters) of storage are installed, or a tankless water heater that ramps up to at least 110F within 5 seconds is installed. The storage may be internal or external to the tankless water heater.

WATER EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Table 801.1(1) Maximum Pipe Length Conversion Table a

Nominal Pipe Size

(inch)

Liquid Ounces per Foot

of Length

Main, Branch, and Fixture Supply System Volume Category

Branch and Fixture Supply Volume from Circulation

Loop

128 ounces (1 gallons)

[per 801.1(1)]

64 ounces (0.5 gallon)

[per 801.1(2)]

32 ounces (0.25 gallon) [per 801.1(3)]

24 ounces (0.19 gallon) [per 801.1(4)]

Maximum Pipe Length (feet)

1/4b 0.33 50 50 50 50

5/16b 0.5 50 50 50 48

3/8b 0.75 50 50 43 32

1/2 1.5 50 43 21 16

5/8 2 50 32 16 12

3/4 3 43 21 11 8

7/8 4 32 16 8 6

1 5 26 13 6 5

1 1/4 8 16 8 4 3

1 1/2 11 12 6 3 2

2 18 7 4 2 1

a. Maximum pipe length figures apply when the entire pipe run is one nominal diameter only. Where multiple pipe diameters are used, the combined volume shall not exceed the volume limitation in Section 801.1.

b. The maximum flow rate through 1/4 inch nominal piping shall not exceed 0.5 gpm. The maximum flow rate through 5/16 inch nominal piping shall not exceed 1 gpm. The maximum flow rate through 3/8 inch nominal piping shall not exceed 1.5 gpm.

Table 801.1(2) Common Hot Water Pipe Internal Volumes

OUNCES OF WATER PER FOOT OF PIPE

Size Nominal,

Inch

Copper Type M

Copper Type L

Copper Type K

CPVC CTS SDR 11

CPVC SCH 40

CPVC SCH 80

PE-RT SDR 9

Composite ASTM F

1281

PEX CTS SDR

9

3/8 1.06 0.97 0.84 N/A 1.17 N/A 0.64 0.63 0.64

1/2 1.69 1.55 1.45 1.25 1.89 1.46 1.18 1.31 1.18

3/4 3.43 3.22 2.90 2.67 3.38 2.74 2.35 3.39 2.35

1 5.81 5.49 5.17 4.43 5.53 4.57 3.91 5.56 3.91

1 ¼ 8.70 8.36 8.09 6.61 9.66 8.24 5.81 8.49 5.81

1 ½ 12.18 11.83 11.45 9.22 13.2 11.38 8.09 13.88 8.09

2 21.08 20.58 20.04 15.79 21.88 19.11 13.86 21.48 13.86

WATER EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Indoor hot water usage is reduced by one of the following practices:

(1) All hot water piping that runs to the plumbing fixtures in both the kitchen and bathrooms is 40 feet or less in length from the water heater and is sized in accordance with the code for the specified application. Approve 2 points.

(2) All hot water piping that runs to the plumbing fixtures in both the kitchen and bathrooms is 30 feet or less from the water heater and is sized in accordance with the code for the specified application. Approve 3 points.

(3) One of the following piping system designs is implemented:

(a) use of structured-type plumbing with demand controlled hot water loops, in which the volume of water contained in the pipe and fixture fittings downstream of the recirculating trunk line is a maximum of 4 cups (0.95 liters) (57.75 cubic inches) (0.25 gallons); Approve 6 points, or

(b) an engineered parallel piping system (i.e., manifold system) in which the hot water line distance from the water heater to the parallel piping system is less than 15 feet and the parallel piping to the fixture fittings contains a maximum of 8 cups (1.89 liters) (115.50 cubic inches) (0.50 gallons); Approve6 points, or

(c) central core plumbing system with all plumbing fixture fittings (e.g., faucets, showerheads) located such that the volume of water contained in each pipe run between the water heater and fixture fitting is a maximum of 6 cups (1.42 liters) (86.63 cubic inches) (0.38 gallons), Approve 8 points.

(4) Pipe runs exceeding 40 feet from the water heater to fixture locations are aided by one of the following:

(a) tankless water heater is installed at point of use and is served only by cold water or a solar-assisted system.

(b) on-demand hot water recirculation system is installed.

Calculation showing maximum amount of water in the piping between heater and any fixture.

Verify by documentation review and inspection. Confirm that the distances and pipe sizes in the calculation are consistent with the actual installation. Confirm that the volume calculations use the information provided in the table.

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1.2 801.2 Water -conserving appliances. ENERGY STAR or equivalent water-conserving appliances are

installed.

(1) dishwasher (2) washing machine, or (3) washing machine with a water factor of 6.0 or less

Multi-Unit Building Note: Washing machines are installed in individual units or provided in common areas of multi-unit buildings.

801.2

None. Inspect for ENERGY STAR label or equivalent appliance. All appliances of each type must meet the requirement.

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1.3 801.3 Showerheads. Showerheads are in accordance with the following:

(1) The total maximum combined flow rate of all showerheads controlled by a single valve at any point in time in a shower compartment is 1.6 to less than 2.5 gpm. Maximum of two valves are installed per shower compartment. The flow rate is tested at 80 psi (552 kPa) in accordance with ASME A112.18.1. Showerheads are served by an automatic compensating valve that complies with ASSE 1016 or ASME A112.18.1 and specifically designed to provide thermal shock and scald protection at the flow rate of the showerhead. (Points awarded per shower compartment. In multi-unit buildings, the average of the points ass igned to individual dwelling units may be used as the number of points awarded for this pract ice, rounded to the nearest whole number.)

(2) All shower compartments in the dwelling unit(s) and common areas meet the requirements of 801.3(1) and all showerheads are in accordance with one of the following:

(a) 2.0 to less than 2.5 gpm (b) 1.6 to less than 2.0 gpm

(3) Any shower control that can shut off water flow without affecting temperature is installed. (Points awarded per shower control.)

For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m

801.3

Manufactu’er’s specifications showing compliance. Verify by document review and inspection. Total flow rate per shower compartment at any one time must meet (1) OR (2).

WATER EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Question: What is a shower compartment? Answer: A shower compartment is any enclosure where someone can take a shower. A bathtub with a shower head is a shower compartment. Some shower compartments have multiple shower heads. When awarding points for 801.3 the shower compartment flow rate should be determined by the maximum flow when all shower heads in the compartment are operating if it is possible to run more than one at once.

Question: In a multi-unit building, do all showerheads (801.4) and lavatory faucets (801.5) have to comply? How about different units with different number of bathrooms?

Answer: For multi-unit buildings the points may be based on the average points per unit rounded to the nearest whole number.

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1.4.

1 801.4.1 Water-efficient lavatory faucets with a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gpm (5.68 L/m), tested at 60 psi (414 kPa) in accordance with ASME A112.18.1, are installed:

(1) a bathroom (all faucets in a bathroom are in compliance) (Points awarded for each bathroom. In multi-unit buildings, the average of the points ass igned to individual dwelling units may be used as the number of points awarded for this pract ice, rounded to the nearest whole number.)

(2) all lavatory faucets in the dwelling unit(s) and common areas

801.4.1

Manufactu’er’s specs showing compliance. Verify by document review and inspection. Points for a multi-unit building may be the average of the points for individual units rounded to the nearest whole number.

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1.4.

2 801.4.2 Self-closing valve, motion sensor, metering, or pedal-activated faucet is installed to enable intermittent on/off operation. (Points awarded per fixture.)

801.4.2


801.

5 801.5 Water closets and urinals. Water closets and urinals are in accordance with the following: (Points awarded for 801.5(2) or 801.5(3), not both.)

(1) Gold and emerald levels: All water closets and urinals are in accordance with Section 801.5.

(2) A water closet is installed with an effective flush volume of 1.28 gallons (4.85 L) or less when tested in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or ASME A112.19.14 as applicable, and is in accordance with EPA WaterSense Tank-Type Toilets. (Points awarded per fixture. In multi-unit buildings, the average of the points assigned to individual dwelling units may be used as the number of points awarded for this practice, rounded to the nearest whole number.)

(3) All water closets are in accordance with Section 801.5(2).

(4) All water closets are in accordance with Section 801.5(2) and one or more of the following are installed:

(a) Water closets that have a flush volume of 1.2 gallons or less. (Points awarded per toilet. In multi-unit buildings, the average of the points ass igned to individual dwelling units may be used as the number of points awarded for this pract ice, rounded to the nearest whole number.)

(b) One or more urinals with a flush volume of 0.5 gallons (1.9L) or less when tested in accordance with ASME A112.19.2.

(c) One or more composting or waterless toilets and/or urinals.

801.5

Manufacturer’s specifications or literature. Verify by document review and inspection that at least one is installed. If points are claimed for (3) or (4) verify that all water closets comply. In multi-unit buildings an average of the points per unit (rounded to the nearest whole number) may be used for the building for (2).

WATER EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


Question: Water closets with an effective flush volume of 1.28 gallons or less. If fixtures are capable of a flush volume of 1.6 gallons but have been adjusted down to below 1.28 (via adjusting the float level inside the tank), points are denied because the fixture itself has the capability to flush at 1.6 gallons, correct?

Answer: Unless the toilets come with a manufacturer’s setting for 1.28 gpf the points should not be awarded. If the builder or plumber has made the adjustment there is no guarantee that the flush volume is 1.28 or that the toilet will flush effectively at the lower flow rate.

Question : regarding item 801.6(1) and (2). Can a builder use a HydroRight product to convert his 1.6 gpf toilets into dual flush and qualify for points for this practice

Answer: To meet the intent of the practice the toilet needs to perform as a dual flush toilet. If the converter does that then it is ok to award the points.

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1.6.

1 801.6.1 Multi-stream, multi-trajectory rotating nozzles are installed in lieu of spray nozzles for turf or landscaping.

801.6.1

None. Verify by inspection for this type of nozzle.

801.

6.2 801.6.2 Drip irrigation is installed.

(1) Drip irrigation is installed for landscape beds. (2) Subsurface drip is installed for turf grass areas.

801.6.2


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1.6.

3 801.6.3 Landscape plan and implementation are executed by a certified WaterSense Professional or equivalent as approved by Adopting Entity.

801.6.3

Plan and statement from water sense professional indicating compliance.

Verify by documentation review and inspect to verify landscaping has been installed per the plan.

801.

6.4 801.6.4 Drip irrigation zones specifications show plant type by name and water use/need for each

emitter. (Points awarded only if specifications are implemen ted.)

801.6.4

Landscape plan. Verify by documentation review and inspect to confirm installation according to plan.

801.

6.5 801.6.5 The irrigation system(s) is controlled by a smart controller or no irrigation is installed (Points

for 801.6.5(2) are not additive with points for 801 .6.5(1).)

(1) Evapotranspiration (ET) based irrigation controller with a rain sensor or soil moisture sensor based irrigation controller.

(2) No irrigation is installed and a landscape plan is developed in accordance with Section 503.5, as applicable.

801.6.5

(1) Manufacturer’s literature. (1) Verify by inspection that appropriate controller has been installed.

(2) Landscape plan of 503.5 (2) Verify by documentation review and inspection that landscaping has been installed per the plan and that no irrigation system has been installed. A full landscape plan is required and at least 5 points are required from 503.5(1)-(4).

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1.7.

1 801.7.1 Rainwater is used for irrigation in accordance with one of the following:

(1) Rainwater is diverted for landscape irrigation without impermeable water storage (2) Rainwater is diverted for landscape irrigation with impermeable water storage in accordance with

one of the following: (a) 50 – 499 gallon storage capacity (b) 500 – 2499 gallon storage capacity (c) 2500 gallon or larger storage capacity (system is designed by a professional certified by The

American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association or equivalent) (d) All irrigation demands are met by rainwater capture (documentation demonstrating the water

needs of the landscape is provided and the system is designed by a professional certified by The American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association or equivalent).

801.7.1


WATER EFFICIENCY


REQUIREMENT


801.

7.2 801.7.2 Rainwater is used for indoor domestic demand as follows. The system is designed by a

professional certified by The American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association or equivalent.

(1) Rainwater is used to supply an indoor appliance or fixture for any locally approved use. (Points awarded per appliance or fixture.)

(2) Rainwater provides for total domestic demand.

801.7.2

(1) None (1) Verify by inspection.

(2) Analysis by qualified professional that system as installed and normal rainfall with provide 100% of domestic demand.


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1.8 801.8 Sediment filters. Water filter is installed to reduce sediment and protect plumbing fixtures for the

whole building or the entire dwelling unit.

801.8


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2.1 802.1 Reclaimed, g ray, or recycled water . Reclaimed, gray, or recycled water is used as permitted by

applicable code. (Points awarded for either Section 802.1(1) or 802. 1(2), not both.) (Points awarded for either Section 802.5 or 802.1, not both .)

(1) each water closet flushed by reclaimed, gray, or recycled water (Points awarded per fixture or appliance.)

(2) irrigation from reclaimed, gray, or recycled water on-site

802.1

Gray water, as specified by Appendix O of the IRC, is separated and reused, as permitted by local building code. (Points awarded for either 802.1(1) or 802.1(2), not both)

(1) Each water closet flushed by reclaimed or recycled water (Points awarded for each fixture.)

Irrigation from reclaimed or recycled water on-site

None. (1) Verify the number of water closets flushed by reclaimed or recycled water. For multi-unit buildings approve points for the average number of fixtures per unit rounded the nearest whole number.

(2) Verify by inspection irrigation system uses reclaimed or recycled water onsite.

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2.2 802.2 Automatic shutoff water devices. One of the following automatic shutoff water supply devices

is installed. Where a fire sprinkler system is present, installer is to ensure the device will not interfere with the operation of the fire sprinkler system.

(1) excess water flow automatic shutoff (2) leak detection system with automatic shutoff

802.2

When fire sprinkler system present, provide instal’er’s certification that shutoff does not interfere with sprinklers.

Verify by inspection.

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2.3 802.3 Engineered biological system or intensive bioremediation system. An engineered biological

system or intensive bioremediation system is installed and the treated water is used on site. Design and implementation are approved by appropriate regional authority.

802.3

Local jurisdiction approval. Verify by inspection that the system approved has been installed.

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2.4 802.4 Recirculating humidifier. Where a humidifier is required, a recirculating humidifier is used in

lieu of a traditional “flow through” type.

802.4

None. Verify by inspection. This should be a permanently installed system and not a portable one.

80

2.5 802.5 Advanced wastewater treatment system. Advanced wastewater (aerobic) treatment system is

installed and treated water is used on site. (Points awarded for either Section 802.5 or 802.1, not both.)

802.5

Documentation describing advanced features of the system. Verify by documentation review and inspection.


INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

REQUIREMENT

DOCUMENTATION TO BE AVA ILABLE TO VERIFIER INSTRUCTIONS TO VERIFIER

901.

1.1 901.1.1 Natural draft furnaces, boilers, or water heaters are not located in conditioned spaces,

including conditioned crawlspaces, unless located in a mechanical room that has an outdoor air source and is sealed and insulated to separate it from the conditioned space(s). (Points are awarded only for buildings that use natural draft combustion space o r water heating equipment.)

901.1.1

None. Verify by inspection. All electric homes do not qualify for points in this section. Heat pumps qualify for 901.1.4. Homes must have natural draft appliance to qualify for these points.

Question: Define t“e “natural draft heating or water hea”er” as discussed in 901.1. Are electric air handler and electric water heater considered natural draft?

Answer : Natural draft equipment uses a chimney or flue to vent the combustion gasses without a power vent. The hot gasses naturally rise out the chimney. Electric heat pumps, electric resistance furnaces, and electric water heaters have no chimney or flue so this practice does not apply. Electric heat pumps get points in 901.1.4.

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1.1.

2 901.1.2 Air handling equipment or return ducts are not located in the garage, unless placed in isolated, air-sealed mechanical rooms with an outside air source.

901.1.2


Question: Does a home without a garage earn points for this practice?

Answer: Yes.

Question: Can points be awarded for this practice if the ducts in the garage are enclosed in a soffit structure and are not exposed to the garage directly..

Answer: If the return ducts were inside the thermal envelope and there is an air barrier separating the ducts from the garage the points are acceptable.

Question: Does the outside air source have to be directed to the mechanical closet alone (for positive pressure of the closet) or does outside air tied directly to the HVAC equipment (mechanical outdoor ventilation strategy tied into the return) meet this credit requirement?

Answer: The intent of this practice is to prevent garage pollutants from getting into the HVAC system. Since the air handler and return ducts are under a negative pressure, if they are exposed to the ambient garage atmosphere the chance of getting some pollutants sucked into the system are pretty good. The exception for enclosing this equipment in a sealed room expects that there is fresh air available to keep the sealed room from becoming negatively pressurized and sucking garage pollutants into the room. Outside air intakes directly into the HVAC system would not qualify for this exception.

90

1.1.

3 901.1.3 The following combustion space heating or water heating equipment is installed within conditioned space:

(1) all furnaces or all boilers (a) power vent furnace(s) or boiler(s) (b) direct vent furnace(s) or boiler(s)

(2) all water heaters (a) power vent water heater(s) (b) direct vent water heater(s)

901.1.3


90

1.1.

4 901.1.4 Gas-fired fireplaces and direct heating equipment is listed and is installed in accordance with the NFPA 54, ICC IFGC, or the applicable local gas appliance installation code. Gas-fired fireplaces and direct heating equipment are vented to the outdoors. MANDATORY

901.1.4


90

1.1.

5 901.1.5 Natural gas and propane fireplaces are direct vented, have permanently fixed glass fronts or gasketed doors, and comply with CSA Z21.88/CSA 2.33 or CSA Z21.50b/CSA 2.22b.

901.1.5

Manufacturer’s literature. Verify by inspection and documentation review that the installed unit complies with the practices including the CSA standards.



REQUIREMENT


901.

1.6 901.1.6 The following electric equipment is installed:

(1) heat pump air handler in unconditioned space (2) heat pump air handler in conditioned space

901.1.6


90

1.2.

1 901.2.1 Solid fuel-burning fireplaces, inserts, stoves and heaters are code compliant and are in accordance with the following requirements:

(1) Site-built masonry wood-burning fireplaces use outside combustion air and include a means of sealing the flue and the combustion air outlets to minimize interior air (heat) loss when not in operation.

(2) Factory-built, wood-burning fireplaces are in accordance with the certification requirements of UL 127 and are EPA certified. (note: The EPA does not certify fireplaces. There are EPA qualified fireplaces that are acceptable for this practice.

(3) Wood stove and fireplace inserts, as defined in UL 1482 Section 3.8, are in accordance with the certification requirements of UL 1482 and are in accordance with the emission requirements of the EPA Certification and the State of Washington WAC 173-433-100(3).

(4) Pellet (biomass) stoves and furnaces are in accordance with ASTM E1509 or are EPA certified.

(5) Masonry heaters are in accordance with the definitions in ASTM E1602 and ICC IBC Section 2112.1.

901.2.1


(2) Manufacturer’s literature or label.. (2) Verify by documentation review and inspection. Confirm UL and EPA standards are met. Look for a hang tag that looks like the sample at epa.gov/burnwise/pdfs/Phase2Fphangtag.pdf. If no hang tag check the manufacture/model on the list at epa.gov/burnwise/fireplacelist.html

(3) Manufactu’er’s literature or label. (3) Verify by documentation review and inspection. Confirm Washington state, UL, and EPA standards are met.

(4) Manufactu’er’s literature or label. (4) Verify by documentation review and inspection. Confirm ASTM and EPA standards are met.

(5) Manufactu’er’s literature or label. (5) Verify by documentation review and inspection. Confirm ASTM and IBC standards are met.

90

1.2.

2 901.2.2 Fireplaces, woodstoves, pellet stoves, or masonry heaters are not installed.

901.2.2 Fireplaces, woodstoves, pellet stoves, or masonry heaters are not installed.

None. Verify by inspection that no fireplace, woodstove, pellet stove or masonry heater is installed.

901.

3 901.3 Garages. Garages are in accordance with the following: (1) Attached garage

(a) Doors installed in the common wall between the attached garage and conditioned space are tightly sealed and gasketed.

(b) A continuous air barrier is provided separating the garage space from the conditioned living spaces.

(c) For one- and two-family dwelling units, a 100 cfm (47 L/s) or greater ducted or 70 cfm (33 L/s) cfm or greater unducted wall exhaust fan is installed and vented to the outdoors and is designed and installed for continuous operation or has controls (e.g., motion detectors, pressure switches) that activate operation for a minimum of 1 hour when either human passage door or roll-up automatic doors are operated. For ducted exhaust fans, the fan airflow rating and duct sizing are in accordance with Appendix A.

(2) A carport is installed, the garage is detached from the building, or no garage is installed.

901.3

1a, and 1b are mandatory if applicable.



REQUIREMENT


(1a) None. (1a) Verify by inspection.

(1b) None. (1b) Verify by inspection that all penetrations, cracks, and seams have been sealed. This should be partially done at rough and completed at final.

(1c) Manufactu’er’s literature/specifications for fan. (1c) Verify by inspection and documentation review of the fan specs.

(2) None. (2) Verify by inspection that building has carport or garage is detached.

Question: Does Closed-Cell spray foam insulation count as an air barrier when used between the garage and the living space?

Answer: Yes, closed cell spray foam gets the points as an air barrier. Air flow and vapor flow are both issues in construction. Properly installed closed cell but not open cell foam counts as both a vapor retarder and an air barrier.

Question: 901.3 ( –) – Does this mean that there must be an air barrier between garage and LS attics?

Answer: If the attic over a garage is consider“d “living sp”ce” or is part of the conditioned envelope then an air barrier would be required.

90

1.4 901.4 Wood materials. A minimum of 85 percent of material within a product group (i.e., wood

structural panels, countertops, composite trim/doors, custom woodwork, and/or component closet shelving) is manufactured in accordance with the following:

(1) Structural plywood used for floor, wall, and/or roof sheathing is compliant with DOC PS 1 and/or DOC PS 2. OSB used for floor, wall, and/or roof sheathing is compliant with DOC PS 2. The panels are made with moisture-resistant adhesives. The trademark indicates these adhesives as follows: Exposure 1 or Exterior for plywood, and Exposure 1 for OSB. MANDATORY

(2) Particleboard and MDF (medium density fiberboard) is manufactured and labeled in accordance with CPA A208.1 and CPA A208.2, respectively. (Points awarded per product group.)

(3) Hardwood plywood in accordance with HPVA HP-1. (Points awarded per product group.)

(4) Particleboard, MDF, or hardwood plywood is in accordance with CPA 4. (Points awarded per product group.)

(5) Composite wood or agrifiber panel products contain no added urea-formaldehyde or are in accordance with the CARB Composite Wood Air Toxic Contaminant Measure Standard. (Points awarded per product group.)

(6) Non-emitting products. (Points awarded per product group.)

901.4

(1) None. (1) Mandatory for certification. Verify by inspection that the grade stamp shows PS1 or PS2 and Exposure 1 or Exterior

(2) Manufactu’er’s literature or label on product indicating CPA compliance.

(2) – (6) Verify that marking on the products show compliance with the appropriate criteria. Approve points for each product group when at least 85% of the product for the group meets the requirement. Product groups available for these practices include countertops, trim, woodwork, and shelving.

(3) Manufactu’er’s literature or label on product indicating HPVA compliance.

(4) Manufactu’er’s literature or label on product indicating CPA4 compliance.

(5) Manufactu’er’s literature or label on product indicating CARB compliance.

(6) Manufactu’er’s literature demonstrating zero emissions.

90

1.5 901.5 Cabinets. A minimum of 85 percent of installed cabinets are in accordance with one or both of

the following: (Where both of the following practices are used, on ly 3 points are awarded.)

(1) All parts of the cabinet are made of solid wood or non-formaldehyde emitting materials such as metal or glass.

(2) The composite wood used in wood cabinets is in accordance with CARB Composite Wood Air Toxic Contaminant Measure Standard or equivalent as certified by a third-party program such as, but not limited to, those in Appendix D.

901.5




REQUIREMENT


(2) Manufactu’er’s literature showing 3rd party certification. (2) Verify by documentation and by inspection to the extent possible. Approve 6 for at least 85% of complying carpet, 2 points for 85% of complying pad, and 2 points 85% of for complying adhesives.

90

1.6 901.6 Carpets. Carpets are in accordance with the following:

(1) Wall-to-wall carpeting is not installed adjacent to water closets and bathing fixtures. MANDATORY

(2) A minimum of 10 percent of the conditioned floor space has carpet and at least 85 percent of installed carpet area and/or carpet cushion (padding) are in accordance with the emission levels of CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Product is tested by a laboratory with the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 within the laboratory scope of accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 and certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those in Appendix D.

(a) carpet (b) carpet cushion

901.6


(2) Manufactu’er’s literature showing 3rd party certification. (2) Verify by documentation and by inspection to the extent possible. Approve 6 for at least 85% of complying carpet, 2 points for 85% of complying pad.

Question: For 901.5 (1) how close may a carpeted area be? Answer: The intent is that there should be no carpet in a bathroom unless there is a dressing room in a large bathroom. At a minimum there should not be any carpet where someone exiting a bath tub or shower would drip on the carpet or near toilets

90

1.7 901.7 Hard-surface flooring. A minimum of 10 percent of the conditioned floor space has pre-finished

hard-surface flooring installed and a minimum of 85 percent of all prefinished installed hard-surface flooring is in accordance with the emission concentration limits of CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Emission levels are determined by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 is in its scope of accreditation. The product is certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those found in Appendix D.

Where post-manufacture coatings or surface applications have not been applied, the following hard surface flooring types are deemed to comply with the emission requirements of this practice:

(a) Ceramic tile flooring (b) Organic-free, mineral-based flooring (c) Clay masonry flooring (d) Concrete masonry flooring (e) Concrete flooring (f) Metal flooring

901.7

None for materials (a)-(g). Manufactu’er’s literature showing 3rd party certification for other materials. Scope of work or specification showing products to be installed.

Verify by inspection and documentation review that at least 10% of the conditioned floor is covered with hard surface flooring and that at least 85% of the installed materials comply.

Question: My client has used laminate flooring and is claiming points for 901.6. Air Quality Sciences Incorporated tested this flooring and found .026 ppm of formaldehyde concentration this is barely any but it is not CDPH or other 3rd party certified – does this count?

Answer: Section 901.6 expects a third party certification meeting the CDPH 01350 criteria. Some places in the Standard there is no specific requirement for 3rd party certification and in those cases a manufactu’er’s claim is sufficient. But in this case the product really needs that 3rd party certification before the points can be awarded.



REQUIREMENT


901.

8 901.8 Wall coverings. A minimum of 10 percent of the interior wall surfaces are covered and a minimum of 85 percent of wall coverings are in accordance with the emission concentration limits of CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Emission levels are determined by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 is in its scope. The product is certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those in Appendix D.

901.8

Manufactu’er’s literature showing 3rd party certification for other materials. Scope of work or specification showing products to be installed.

Verify by inspection and documentation review that at least 10% of the interior walls are covered with wall coverings and that at least 85% of the installed materials comply.

Question: Does shower or bath surround count when tiled? Answer: If there are enough square feet (in total) of tub/shower surrounds to be equivalent to 10% of the wall surfaces and if those surrounds have the 3rd party certification, then points may be awarded for this practice

90

1.9 901.9 Interior a rchitectural coatings. A minimum of 85 percent of the interior architectural coatings

are in accordance with either Section 901.9.1 or Section 901.9.3, not both. A minimum of 85 percent of architectural colorants are in accordance with Section 901.9.2.

901.9 90

1.9.

1 901.9.1 Site-applied interior architectural coatings, which are inside the water proofing envelope, are in accordance with one or more of the following:

(1) Zero VOC as determined by EPA Method 24 (VOC content is below the detection limit for the method)

(2) GreenSeal GS-11

(3) CARB Suggested Control Measure for Architectural Coatings (see Table 901.9.1).

901.9.1

Table 901.9.1 VOC Content Limits For Architectural Coatings a,b,c

Coating Category LIMIT d (g/l) Flat Coatings 50 Non-flat Coatings 100 Non-flat High-Gloss Coatings 150 Specialty Coatings:

Aluminum Roof Coatings 400 Basement Specialty Coatings 400 Bituminous Roof Coatings 50 Bituminous Roof Primers 350 Bond Breakers 350 Concrete Curing Compounds 350 Concrete/Masonry Sealers 100 Driveway Sealers 50 Dry Fog Coatings 150 Faux Finishing Coatings 350 Fire Resistive Coatings 350 Floor Coatings 100 Form-Release Compounds 250 Graphic Arts Coatings (Sign Paints) 500 High Temperature Coatings 420 Industrial Maintenance Coatings 250 Low Solids Coatings 120e Magnesite Cement Coatings 450 Mastic Texture Coatings 100



REQUIREMENT


Metallic Pigmented Coatings 500 Multi-Color Coatings 250 Pre-Treatment Wash Primers 420 Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters 100 Reactive Penetrating Sealers 350 Recycled Coatings 250

Coating Category LIMIT d (g/l) Roof Coatings 50 Rust Preventative Coatings 250 Shellacs, Clear 730 Shellacs,� Opaque 550 Specialty Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters 100 Stains 250 Stone Consolidants 450 Swimming Pool Coatings 340 Traffic Marking Coatings 100 Tub and Tile Refinish Coatings 420 Waterproofing Membranes 250 Wood Coatings 275 Wood Preservatives 350 Zinc-Rich Primers 340 a. The specified limits remain in effect unless revised limits are listed in subsequent columns in the table. b. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Architectural

Coatings Suggested Control Measure, February 1, 2008. c. Table 901.9.1 architectural coating regulatory category and VOC content compliance determination shall

conform to the California Air Resources Board Suggested Control Measure for Architectural Coatings dated February 1, 2008.

d. Limits are expressed as VOC Regulatory (except as noted), thinned to the manufacturer’s maximum thinning recommendation, excluding any colorant added to tint bases.

e. Limit is expressed as VOC actual.

List of all interior coatings used showing amount used, %, and VOC criteria. Manufactu’er’s literature showing VOC. Scopes of work or specifications showing which materials were to be used.

Verify by document review that 85% of installed interior product meets either 901.9.1 or 901.9.3. Percentage is calculated based on gallons applied.

90

1.9.

2 901.9.2 Architectural coating colorant additive VOC content is in accordance with Table 901.9.2. (Points for 901.9.2 are awarded only if base architectural coating is in accordance with 901.9.1.)

901.9.2

Table 901.9.2 VOC Content Limits for Colorants

Colorant LIMIT (g/l)

Architectural Coatings, excluding IM Coatings 50

Solvent-Based IM 600

Waterborne IM 50

List of all colorants used showing amount used, %, and VOC criteria. Manufactu’er’s literature showing VOC as listed. Scopes of work or specifications showing which materials were to be used.

Verify by document review that 85% of colorants used meets. Percentage is calculated based on volume of colorants used.



REQUIREMENT


901.

9.3 901.9.3 Site-applied interior architectural coatings, which are inside the waterproofing envelope, are in

accordance with the emission levels of CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 , except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Emission levels are determined by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 in its scope of accreditation. The product is certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those found in Appendix D.

901.9.3

List of all interior coatings used showing amount used, %, and VOC criteria. Manufactu’er’s literature showing VOC and product certification. Scopes of work or specifications showing which materials were to be used.

Verify by document review that 85% of installed interior product meets 901.9.3. Percentage is calculated based on gallons applied.

90

1.10

901.10 Interior adhesives and sealants. A minimum of 85 percent of site-applied adhesives and sealants located inside the waterproofing envelope are in accordance with one of the following, as applicable.

(1) The emission levels are in accordance with CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Emission levels are determined by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 is in its scope of accreditation. The product is certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those found in Appendix D.

(2) GreenSeal GS-36.

(3) SCAQMD Rule 1168 in accordance with Table 901.10(3), excluding products that are sold in 16 ounce containers or less and are regulated by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Consumer Products Regulations.

901.10

Table 901.10(3) Site Applied Adhesive and Sealants VOC Limits a,b

ADHESIVE OR SEALANT VOC LIMIT (g/l)

Indoor carpet adhesives 50

Carpet pad adhesives 50

Outdoor carpet adhesives 150

Wood flooring adhesive 100

Rubber floor adhesives 60

Subfloor adhesives 50 Ceramic tile adhesives 65

VCT and asphalt tile adhesives 50

Drywall and panel adhesives 50

Cove base adhesives 50

Multipurpose construction adhesives 70 Structural glazing adhesives 100

Single ply roof membrane adhesives 250

Architectural sealants 250

Architectural sealant primer Non-porous Porous

250 775

Modified bituminous sealant primer 500

Other sealant primers 750

CPVC solvent cement 490

PVC solvent cement 510

ABS solvent cement 325



REQUIREMENT


Plastic cement welding 250

Adhesive primer for plastic 550

Contact adhesive 80

Special purpose contact adhesive 250

Structural wood member adhesive 140 a. VOC limit less water and less exempt compounds in grams/liter b. For low-solid adhesives and sealants, the VOC limit is expressed in grams/liter of material as specified in Rule

1168. For all other adhesives and sealants, the VOC limits are expressed as grams of VOC per liter of adhesive or sealant less water and less exempt compounds as specified in Rule 1168.

List of all interior sealants used showing amount, %, and VOC criteria. Manufactu’er’s literature showing VOC and product certification when applicable.

(1)Verify by documentation review that 85% of product used met the 901.10 (1) VOC requirements and the product was 3rd party certified. Verify that all typical interior sealant materials are listed including drywall adhesives.

(2) Verify by documentation review that 85% of product used met at least one of the 901.10 (1), (2), or (3) VOC. Verify that all typical interior sealant materials are listed including drywall adhesives.

90

1.11

901.11 Insulation. Emissions of 85 percent of wall, ceiling, and floor insulation materials are in accordance with the emission levels of CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 except footnote b in Table 4.1 does not apply (i.e., allowable maximum formaldehyde concentration is 16.5 µg/m3 (13.5 ppb)). Emission levels are determined by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.1 is in its scope of accreditation. Insulation is certified by a third-party program accredited to ISO Guide 65, such as, but not limited to, those in Appendix D.

901.11

Manufactu’er’s literature or product marking showing compliance for wall, ceiling and/or floor insulation.

Verify by documentation review and inspection that at least 85% of all building envelope insulation materials comply including 3rd party certification.

90

1.12

901.12 Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Where not required by local codes, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is installed in a central location outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. The CO alarm(s) is located in accordance with NFPA 720 and is hardwired with a battery backup. The alarm device(s) is certified by a third-party for conformance to either CSA 6.19 or UL 2034.

901.12

Manufactu’er’s literature or product marking showing NFPA and CSA or UL compliance.

Verify by inspection and documentation review that a CO detector meeting the requirements has been installed near each sleeping area and is hard wired.

90

1.13

901.13 Building entrance pollutants control. Pollutants are controlled at all main building entrances by one of the following methods:

(1) Exterior grilles or mats are installed in a fixed manner and may be removable for cleaning. (2) Interior grilles or mats are installed in a fixed manner and may be removable for cleaning.

901.13

None. Verify interior OR exterior controls by inspection.

90

1.14

901.14 Non-smoking areas. Environmental tobacco smoke is minimized by one or more of the following:

(1) All interior common areas of a multi-unit building are designated as non-smoking areas with posted signage.

(2) Exterior smoking areas of a multi-unit building are designated with posted signage and located a minimum of 25 feet from entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows.

901.14

None. Verify by inspection. Points available for multi-unit only.



REQUIREMENT


902.

1.1 902.1.1 Spot ventilation is in accordance with the following:

(1) Bathrooms are vented to the outdoors. The minimum ventilation rate is 50 cfm (23.6 L/s) for intermittent operation or 20 cfm (9.4 L/s) for continuous operation in bathrooms. MANDATORY (Points are awarded only if a window complying with IRC Section R303.3 is provided in addition to mechanical ventilation.)

(2) Clothes dryers are vented to the outdoors. MANDATORY

(3) Kitchen exhaust units and/or range hoods are ducted to the outdoors and have a minimum ventilation rate of 100 cfm (47.2 L/s) for intermittent operation or 25 cfm (11.8 L/s) for continuous operation.

902.1.1

(1) Manufactu’er’s literature/specifications for the fan showing cfm.

(1) Mandatory for certification. Verify by documentation review and inspection.

(2) None. (2) Mandatory for certification if applicable. Verify by inspection or verify no dryer location is provided.

(3) Manufactu’er’s literature/specifications showing cfm. (3) Verify by documentation review of minimum fan size and inspection to verify by inspection venting to exterior.

90

2.1.

2 902.1.2 Bathroom and/or laundry exhaust fan is provided with an automatic timer and/or humidistat:

(1) for first device (2) for each additional device

902.1.2

None. Verify number of fans and required controls by inspection.

90

2.1.

3 902.1.3 Kitchen range, bathroom, and laundry exhaust are verified to air flow specification. Ventilation airflow at the point of exhaust is tested to a minimum of:

(a) 100 cfm (47.2 L/s) intermittent or 25 cfm (11.8 L/s) continuous for kitchens, and (b) 50 cfm (23.6 L/s) intermittent or 20 cfm (9.4 L/s) continuous for bathrooms and/or laundry

902.1.3

3rd party test report showing compliance as installed. Verify by document review of all fan test results.

90

2.1.

4 902.1.4 Exhaust fans are ENERGY STAR, as applicable.

(1) ENERGY STAR, or equivalent, fans (Points awarded per fan.) (2) ENERGY STAR, or equivalent, fans operating at or below 1 sone (Points awarded per fan.)

902.1.4

ENERGY STAR label or literature for basic fans or fans below 1 sone.

Verify number of installed fans of each type by both documentation review and inspection.

90

2.2.

1 902.2.1 One of the following whole building ventilation systems is implemented and is in accordance with the specifications of Appendix B. MANDATORY if ACH50 is less than 5 for any of 701.4. 3.2(1), or 703.1.5, or 704.5.2.1

(1) exhaust or supply fan(s) ready for continuous operation and with appropriately labeled controls (2) balanced exhaust and supply fans with supply intakes located in accordance with the

manufacturer’s guidelines so as to not introduce polluted air back into the building (3) heat-recovery ventilator (4) energy-recovery ventilator

902.2.1



REQUIREMENT


(1-4) Statement from qualified professional indicating system is in compliance with Appendix B.

One of the following may be installed:

(1) Verify Appendix B compliance by documentation review and installation by inspection.

(2) Verify Appendix B compliance and balance by documentation review and installation inspection that balanced fans have been installed and intake and exhaust are properly located.

(3) Verify Appendix B compliance by documentation review and system installation compliance by inspection.

(4) Verify Appendix B compliance by documentation review and system installation compliance by inspection.

This practice is MANDATORY if ACH50 is less than 5 for any of 701.4.3.2(1), or 703.1.5, or 704.5.2.1 or an y blower door testing that has been done.

Question 902.2.1 calls for a fan that is available for continuous operation, and the appendix implies it must either be flow tested or meet the duct requirements on the table. It do’sn’t seem to require meeting ASHRAE 92.2 or any other specific requirement. Will a continuous bath fan suffice?

Answer: Blower door testing is not required for points in 902.2.1. There is no requirement in the ICC-700 that the ventilation meet ASHRAE 62.2. The requirement is that the ventilation system meets the requirements as spelled out in Appendix B of the ICC-700. Additional points are available in 902.2.2 if the air flow is tested and verified to meet the 902.2.1 design criteria but testing is not required. If the bathroom fan meets the 902.2.1 and appendix B requirements the home may get the points.

Question: Please defi“e “appropriately labe”ed” for an exhaust fan used for whole house ventilation?

Answer: Since whole house ventilation systems are not very common. The intent here is to be sure the home owner understands how to properly operate the system. The specific labeling needs will vary depending on the complexity of the system. Verifiers should use their professional judgment to decide if the labeling/instructions will allow the homeowner to properly use and get the benefits of the system.

90

2.2.

2 902.2.2 Ventilation airflow is tested to achieve the design fan airflow at point of exhaust in accordance with Section 902.2.1.

902.2.2

Test report by qualified professional showing compliance as installed.

Verify by document review of system performance test results. No points approved here unless points approved in 902.2.1.

902.

2.3 902.2.3 MERV filters 8 or greater are installed on central forced air systems and are accessible.

Designer or installer is to verify that the HVAC equipment is able to accommodate the greater pressure drop of MERV 8 filters.

902.2.3

Designer/installer certification of system capability for installed MERV filters.

Verify by documentation & inspection of installed filters.

90

2.3 902.3 Radon control. Radon control measures are in accordance with ICC IRC Appendix F. Zones as

defined in Figure 9(1).

(1) Buildings located in Zone 1 MANDATORY (a) a passive radon system is installed (b) an active radon system is installed

(2) Buildings located in Zone 2 or Zone 3 (a) a passive or active radon system is installed

902.3

(1)(a) None for passive system.

(1)(b) Plans/specifications for active systems.

(2a) None for passive system.

Mandatory for certification if building is located in radon Zone 1. Verify by inspection. Passive system is verified at rough inspection. An active system need partial verification at rough and final verification at final. Points for passive system also OK for active system in Zones 2 & 3.

Question: Multifamily Projects are not under the IRC. The IBC or the jurisdiction has no requirements for Radon control. Does this mandatory requirement apply to multifamily projects?

Answer: The 902.3(1) mandatory requirement applies even if the building is not covered by the IRC. A minimum of a passive radon system is to be installed if the building is in Zone 1.



REQUIREMENT


Question: To get the points, does the builder have to run the radon pipe all the way to the attic?

Answer: To get the points in 902.3 the radon pipe has to be run through the roof.

90

2.4 902.4 HVAC system protection. One of the following HVAC system protection measures is performed.

(1) HVAC supply registers (boots), return grilles, and rough-ins are covered during construction activities to prevent dust and other pollutants from entering the system.

(2) Prior to owner occupancy, HVAC supply registers (boots), return grilles, and duct terminations are inspected and vacuumed. In addition, the coils are inspected and cleaned and the filter is replaced if necessary.

902.4

(1) None. (1) Verify by inspection. OR

(2) Invoice from cleaning contractor showing cleaning and coil inspection.

(2) Verify by documentation review and inspection.

90

2.5 902.5 Central vacuum systems. Central vacuum system is installed and vented to the outside.

902.5 None. Verify by inspection.

902.

6 902.6 Living space contaminants. The living space is sealed in accordance with Section 701.4.3.1 to prevent unwanted contaminants. MANDATORY

902.6

None. Verify by inspection to the extent possible. When various sealing areas have been covered up by the time of the rough inspection, verify by documentation review and superintendent interview. All items listed in 701.4.3.1 must be verified.

Question: if the attic access is located in the attached garage and not in living space is this practice still mandatory.

Answer: If the garage attic is connected to the attic over the living space this practice is still mandatory and the access will need to be gasketed.

Question: Is it acceptable to insulate, caulk and paint the attic entrance shut.

Answer: This is acceptable provided it is does not violate the local building code and assuming that the home owner has no need to get into the attic (e.g. there is no HVAC equipment in the attic that will require service).

903.1 Plumbing

90

3.1.

1 903.1.1 Cold water pipes in unconditioned spaces are insulated to a minimum of R-4 with pipe insulation or other covering that adequately prevents condensation.

903.1.1


903.

1.2 903.1.2 Plumbing is not installed in unconditioned spaces.


903.

2 903.2 Duct insulation. Ducts are in accordance with one of the following.

(1) All HVAC ducts, plenums, and trunks are located in conditioned space. (2) All HVAC ducts, plenums, and trunks are in conditioned space. All HVAC ducts are insulated to a

minimum of R4.

903.2


90

3.3 903.3 Relative humidity. In climate zones 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A as defined by Figure 6(1),

equipment is installed to maintain relative humidity (RH) at or below 60 percent using one of the following: (Points not awarded in other climate zones.)

(1) additional dehumidification system(s) (2) central HVAC system equipped with additional controls to operate in dehumidification mode

903.3

Manufacturer’s literature detailing capabilities. Statement by qualified professional that the system as installed has the capacity to meet the practice.

Verify by documentation review.



REQUIREMENT


904.

1 904.1 Humidity monitoring system. A humidity monitoring system is installed with a mobile base unit that displays readings of temperature and relative humidity. The system has a minimum of two remote sensor units. One remote sensor unit is placed permanently inside the conditioned space in a central location, excluding attachment to exterior walls, and another remote sensor unit is placed permanently outside of the conditioned space.

904.1

None. Verify system installation by inspection.

90

4.2 904.2 Kitchen exhaust. A kitchen exhaust unit(s) that equals or exceeds 400 cfm (189 L/s) is installed,

and makeup air is provided.

904.2

Manufactu’er’s literature showing cfm. Verify by documentation review and inspection that unit is installed and make up air is provided.


OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND BUILDING OWNER EDUCATIO N

REQUIREMENT


1001

.1

1001.1 A building owner’s manual for one and two-family dwellings is provided that includes the following, as available and applicable. (Points awarded per two items. Points awarded for b oth mandatory and non-mandatory items.)

(1) A green building program certificate or completion document. MANDATORY

(2) List of green building features (can include the national green building checklist). MANDATORY

(3) Product manufacturer’s manuals or product data sheet for installed major equipment, fixtures, and appliances. If product data sheet is in the building owners’ manual, manufacturer’s manual may be attached to the appliance in lieu of inclusion in the building owners’ manual. MANDATORY

(4) Maintenance checklist.

(5) Information on local recycling programs.

(6) Information on available local utility programs that purchase a portion of energy from renewable energy providers.

(7) Explanation of the benefits of using energy-efficient lighting systems [e.g., compact fluorescent light bulbs, light emitting diode (LED)] in high-usage areas.

(8) A list of practices to conserve water and energy.

(9) Local public transportation options.

(10) A diagram showing the location of safety valves and controls for major building systems.

(11) Where frost-protected shallow foundations are used, owner is informed of precautions including:

(a) instructions to not remove or damage insulation when modifying landscaping. (b) providing heat to the building as required by the ICC IRC or IBC. (c) keeping base materials beneath and around the building free from moisture caused by broken

water pipes or other water sources.

(12) A list of local service providers that offer regularly scheduled service and maintenance contracts to ensure proper performance of equipment and the structure (e.g., HVAC, water-heating equipment, sealants, caulks, gutter and downspout system, shower and/or tub surrounds, irrigation system).

(13) A photo record of framing with utilities installed. Photos are taken prior to installing insulation, clearly labeled, and included as part of the building owners’ manual.

(14) List of common hazardous materials often used around the building and instructions for proper handling and disposal of these materials.

(15) Information on organic pest control, fertilizers, deicers, and cleaning products.

(16) Information on native landscape materials and/or those that have low water requirements.

(17) Information on methods of maintaining the building’s relative humidity in the range of 30 percent to 60 percent.

(18) Instructions for inspecting the building for termite infestation.

(19) Instructions for maintaining gutters and downspouts and importance of diverting water a minimum of 5 feet away from foundation.

(20) A narrative detailing the importance of maintenance and operation in retaining the attributes of a green-built building.

(21) Where stormwater management measures are installed on the lot, information on the location, purpose, and upkeep of these measures.

1001.1



REQUIREMENT


Homeowner manual that addresses each of the required 3 items and any of the listed additional 17 optional items.

Items (1), (2), and (3) are mandatory for certification. Verify by documentation review. A placeholder for the green certificate in the homeow’er’s or building ow’er’s manual is acceptable for (2); the builder should insert the certificate when it is received from Home Innovation. An electronic implementation of the owner’s manual is acceptable. Point totals will round down to nearest whole number. Verify by review of document to be provided to building owner.

10

02.1

1002.1 Training of building owners. Building owners are familiarized with the role of occupants in achieving green goals. On-site training is provided to the responsible party(ies) regarding equipment operation and maintenance, control systems, and occupant actions that will improve the environmental performance of the building. These include:

(1) HVAC filters (2) thermostat operation and programming (3) lighting controls (4) appliances operation (5) water heater settings and hot water use (6) fan controls (7) recycling practices

1002.1

Buil’er’s documented procedures & std practices explaining the occupant training process. Examples of training materials and written confirmation from similar projects that training has actually been done.

Verify by documentation review.

10

03.1

1003.1 Building construction manual for Multi -Unit Buildings . A building construction manual, including five or more of the following, is compiled and distributed in accordance with Section 1003.0.

(1) A narrative detailing the importance of constructing a green building, including a list of green building attributes included in the building. This narrative is included in all responsible parties’ manuals. MANDATORY

(2) A local green building program certificate as well as a copy of the National Green Building Standard™, as adopted by the Adopting Entity, and the individual measures achieved by the building. MANDATORY

(3) Warranty, operation, and maintenance instructions for all equipment, fixtures, appliances, and finishes. MANDATORY

(4) Record drawings of the building. (5) A record drawing of the site including stormwater management plans, utility lines, landscaping with

common name and genus/species of plantings. (6) A diagram showing the location of safety valves and controls for major building systems. (7) A list of the type and wattage of light bulbs installed in light fixtures. (8) A photo record of framing with utilities installed. Photos are taken prior to installing insulation and

clearly labeled.

1003.1

Building construction manual must be available for review that addresses each of the required 3 items (a placeholder for the certificate is acceptable) plus at least any 2 of the listed additional optional items. Description of process to deliver manual(s) to responsible party.

Verify by documentation review that all 3 mandatory items are included in the construction manual and approve 0.5 point for each item. A placeholder for the Home Innovation green certificate in the manual is acceptable for (1); the builder should insert the certificate when it is received from Home Innovation. An electronic implementation of the manual is acceptable. Round down to the nearest whole number. These manuals may be separate or combined but they must cover all claimed aspects. These points only available for multi-unit buildings.

10

03.2

1003.2 Operations manual for Multi -Unit Buildings . Operations manuals are created and distributed to the responsible parties in accordance with Section 1003.0. Between all of the operation manuals, five or more of the following options are included. (Points awarded per two items. Points awarded for both mandatory and non-mandatory items.)

1003.2

(1) A narrative detailing the importance of operating and living in a green building. This narrative is



REQUIREMENT


included in all responsible parties’ manuals. MANDATORY

(2) A list of practices to conserve water and energy (e.g., turning off lights when not in use, switching the rotation of ceiling fans in changing seasons, purchasing ENERGY STAR appliances and electronics). MANDATORY

(3) Information on methods of maintaining the building’s relative humidity in the range of 30 percent to 60 percent. MANDATORY

(4) Information on opportunities to purchase renewable energy from local utilities or national green power providers and information on utility and tax incentives for the installation of on-site renewable energy systems.

(5) Information on local and on-site recycling and hazardous waste disposal programs and, if applicable, building recycling and hazardous waste handling and disposal procedures.

(6) Local public transportation options.

(7) Explanation of the benefits of using compact fluorescent light bulbs, LEDs, or other high-efficiency lighting.

(8) Information on native landscape materials and/or those that have low water requirements.

(9) Information on the radon mitigation system, where applicable.

(10) A procedure for educating tenants in rental properties on the proper use, benefits, and maintenance of green building systems including a maintenance staff notification process for improperly functioning equipment.

Operations manual that includes all 3 mandatory items and at least 2 from the list of 7 optional items.

Verify by documentation review that the operations manual includes all 3 mandatory items and at least 2 additional items from the 7 available items. These manuals may be separate of combined but they must cover all claimed aspects. These points only available for multi-unit buildings.



REQUIREMENT


1003

.3

1003.3 Maintenance manual for Multi -Unit Buildings . Maintenance manuals are created and distributed to the responsible parties in accordance with Section 1003.0. Between all of the maintenance manuals, five or more of the following options are included. (Points awarded per two items. Points awarded for both mandatory and non-ma ndatory items.)

(1) A narrative detailing the importance of maintaining a green building. This narrative is included in all responsible parties’ manuals. MANDATORY

(2) A list of local service providers that offer regularly scheduled service and maintenance contracts to ensure proper performance of equipment and the structure (e.g., HVAC, water-heating equipment, sealants, caulks, gutter and downspout system, shower and/or tub surrounds, irrigation system).

(3) User-friendly maintenance checklist that includes:

(a) HVAC filters (b) thermostat operation and programming (c) lighting controls (d) appliances and settings (e) water heater settings (f) fan controls

(4) List of common hazardous materials often used around the building and instructions for proper handling and disposal of these materials.

(5) Information on organic pest control, fertilizers, deicers, and cleaning products.

(6) Instructions for maintaining gutters and downspouts and the importance of diverting water a minimum of 5 feet away from foundation.

(7) Instructions for inspecting the building for termite infestation.

(8) A procedure for rental tenant occupancy turnover that preserves the green features.

(9) An outline of a formal green building training program for maintenance staff.

1003.3

Maintenance manual that addresses the 1 mandatory item and at least 4 of the additional 8 optional items.

Verify by documentation review that the maintenance manual addresses the 1 mandatory item and at least 4 additional items. These manuals may be separate of combined but they must cover all claimed aspects. These points only available for multi-unit buildings.


RESIDENTIAL RENOVATIONS AND ADDITIONS The 2012 NGBS provides certification opportunities for both whole house remodeling and small projects. Chapter 11 of the NGBS provides a path way for a whole house (building) renovation to be certified. Chapter 12 provides details on getting a small functional area renovation certified. Whole Building Renovations (Chapter 11) This renovation approach covers both renovation and renovations with an addition provided the addition is not more than 75% of the original above grade conditioned area. For additions greater than 75% the building must be treated as new construction. To meet the certification criteria a building must show improvement of at least 15% in energy efficiency, 20% reduction in water usage, meet the applicable mandatory requirements, and earn at least 88 points from green practices in Chapter 11. The green practices in chapter 11 are essentially the same as the practices for new construction except that some of them have been modified to be more appropriate for a renovation project. For some practices you will notice that the words “new”, “newly installed”, or “exposed during the remodel” have been added to the practice. In order to get points for those practices only the new materials need to comply. For practices that do not contain the “new” clarification then the entire building including any portion that has not been renovated must meet the practice. However, a building can meet the practice even it meeting the practice had nothing to do with the renovation. For example, practice 11.602.4.1 is mandatory and if the home met the practice before the renovation started and met the practice after the renovation was completed, the home is in compliance and gets credit for the practice even though the renovation was completely on the interior of the home (in this case there are no points to award but if there were the home would get the points). The mandatory practices must be met but many of them have a note explaining circumstances where it is not necessary to meet the practice. For example, 11,602.1.3.1 for foundation drainage is mandatory that basements have exterior drain tile. However, if the existing basement is dry and there is no evidence of a moisture problem, then the building is exempted from this practice. It would not be the greenest thing to dig up a foundation that is problem free just to install drain tile. For renovations there are no chapter point thresholds to achieve. The points from all the lot design, resource efficiency, indoor environment, and home owner sections are combined together to meet the point threshold for green practices. The Chapter 11 scoring spreadsheet and verification report highlights the “new” clarifications and mandatory notes in red. The spreadsheet and verification report work essentially the same as the one for new construction. The major differences are associated with the energy and water sections, where the verifier must establish an estimate of the amount of energy used before the renovation and after the renovation and then calculate a percentage reduction. Similarly for water use, an estimate must be made for the usage before the renovation and after the renovation and then calculate the percent reduction. The spreadsheet provides a format for doing the water analysis. The energy analysis must be done by an energy professional using energy modeling software that accounts for heating, cooling, water heating, appliances, and lighting. The same occupancy and lifestyle assumptions must be used for both the before and after analysis. The verifier must establish the “before” conditions before any demolition process destroys the ability to establish the energy related parameters and water fixture flow rates. Chapter 11 may be applied to any building regardless of when it was originally built, however, a newer building built to more recent building codes will have a harder time achieving a high certification level because of the challenge of showing the same percentage improvement as a much older building. If a building is being converted from a non-residential use to a residential use, such that there was no residential “before” condition to establish, a “before” condition may be determined by assuming that the building was converted to residential use according to the code minimum requirements in that location at 1980 or when the building was actually built which ever date is later.

LAND DEVELOPMENT – NEW AND EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS


Besides any required initial visit to determine the “before” parameters, a rough inspection and a final inspection need to be completed and verification reports for both must be submitted just like for new construction. The registration process and inspection notification process are also the same as for new construction. The report submission process is also the same but the energy analysis reports must also be submitted. A remodeling project may be done in phases (e.g. energy upgrade on year, water upgrade the next year, etc.) and certified, however, the entire project must be completed and certified while Home Innovation is certifying to the version of the NGBS that the renovation project began under. Once the transition to the next version of the NGBS has been completed the multi-phase renovation project may not be certified to the old version. The project must be registered before the first rough inspection is done. When interpreting the chapter 11 practices, they should first be examined to see if there is a “new” clarification or a mandatory practice note and then verifiers should refer to the same practice in the new construction sections of this guide. The practice numbers in chapter 11 maintain the same number as the new construction practice with the exception that 11 has been added at the beginning of the number. Just like new construction, to certify a multi-unit whole building renovation, every unit in the building must comply with the practices for which the building is credited. And any common areas must also comply. Functional Area Remodeling (Chapter 12) This chapter provides practices for certifying remodeling projects limited to a kitchen, a bathroom, a basement, or a small addition up to 400ft2. This chapter is applicable to a project in a single family home or in one unit of a multi-family building. There are no bronze, silver, gold, or emerald certification level associated with a functional area remodeling project; the project is certified as “compliant”. There are not points to earn. All applicable practices are mandatory; however some practices offer multiple options for complying. There is a group of practices that apply to all projects and also a few practices specific to each type of project. There is a scoring checklist/verification report that must be used for these projects. The checklist includes both documentation requirements and instructions for the verifier. If further clarification is needed, refer to the similar practice for new construction in this Verifiers Resource Guide. The chapter 12 practice numbers also retain the numbering from the new construction chapters. Small project verification is intended to be done based on one final inspection. The only exception to this is for basement remodeling where a visit is required to confirm that the basement does not have moisture problems before anything is covered up. The documentation for small projects often allows the use of photos (this generally is not permitted for new construction). The registration process and inspection notification process are the same as for new construction as is the report submission. Please register the project as soon as the remodeler has committed to certification. This allows Home Innovation to start the application/invoicing process with the remodeler in time to have that completed when you notify us of the final inspection.

LAND DEVELOPMENT – NEW AND EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS Subdivisions (Land Development) may be certified as One, Two, Three, or Four Stars by meeting the criteria provided in Chapter 4 of the ICC-700 National Green Building Standard. Existing as well as new developments may be certified provided the criteria have been met. There is no requirement that only certified homes be built in a certified land development and there is no requirement that certified homes must be built in a certified development in order for the home to be certified. The home certification and land development certification are independent of each other. However, homes built in certified development receive extra points and a development that requires the homes to be certified also receives extra points.

LAND DEVELOPMENT – NEW AND EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS


The land development project is scored and verified on the Land Development spreadsheet that can be down loaded from www.homeinnovation.com/greenscoring. There are two options for land development recognition from Home Innovation: 1) certification of a completed development, or 2) Letter of Approval. Some developers may desire a “letter of approval” at the conclusion of the planning phase in order to facilitate permitting, etc. If this is desired, then the Letter of Approval portion of verification report should be completed and submitted based on a review of the plans and other documentation. A letter of approval will be issued stating the development will be eligible to be certified once it is built as planned. It is not necessary to receive the Letter of Approval in order to earn certification. A multi-phase development does not need have all phases completed in order to be certified but at least one phase must be complete (land development only; homes do not have to be complete). When only one or a few phases have been completed, only those phases will be certified. Land development verification and certification follows a similar process as new construction projects for registration. There is a project information form (similar to the multi-unit form) that must also be completed for land development projects. Since land development verification is likely to have multiple inspection visits and there is not a defined rough or final inspection, please notify Home Innovation of the first inspection date as the rough inspection date and the last inspection date as the final inspection. If the verification is for a letter of approval that can usually occur in one meeting since it is all document review. In that case the notification should be for a rough inspection. This scoring spreadsheet also contains the documentation requirements and Instructions to Verifier. The spreadsheet also has an instruction page (tab) that details the process for scoring, verification, and documentation submission. Since the practices for land development are very similar to those in Chapter 5 for new construction you should also be familiar with the VRG guidance on those practices when doing a land development verification.


APPENDIX A Scoring Principles Document

Only approve points when you are satisfied that the home substantially meets the requirement as clarified by the Verifier’s Resource Guide

Only approve points when you visually verify on sit e that an item has been implemented, except cases where documentation review or another form of verification is allowed by the Verifier’s Resource Guide

• Photographs are not valid forms of evidence of compliance as a replacement for the physical inspection specified in the Verifier’s Resource Guide

• Re-inspections are allowable to enable a builder to correct an item or to add an item

Do not approve points based on uncertainties

• Might or might not happen in the future

� A builder promises to correct or add an item � A trade has not completed a particular item � Changes with time – approve points if it meets the requirement at the time of your

verification

Do not approve points if there are any pending issu es that still need to be resolved

• At final inspection • By documentation • By re-inspection

Approve points according to what the Verifier’s Res ource Guide requires, not your personal opinion regarding the appropriateness of a particul ar practice or the points being assigned to it

No pro-rated points or partial credit

• For multi-item requirements, always approve points per the Verifier’s Resource Guide

• Generally under the Guidelines, multi-item requirements (i.e., with items A, B, and C) should only be approved points when all components are implemented

• Under the ANSI Standard, points are often available for implementation of individual items of a requirement, per the Verifier’s Resource Guide

• Do not approve 50% of the points for 50% implementation of a given item

Codes and points

• Code required items may or may not earn points per the Verifier’s Resource Guide.

No points when the item is not applicable in a geog raphic area

• i.e., climate differences – FPSF in Miami, FL, or termite protection in Alaska

APPENDIX A


No double-dipping

• Scoring tool and designer report prevent double-dipping

• Points are OK for the same green item with impacts in different sections – i.e., ENERGY STAR appliances may get both energy and water efficiency points

Not clear whether to credit points?

• Use your best judgment to arrive at a decision if possible; and

• Make appropriate notes on the Verification Report; and

• If needed, consult with Home Innovation, AFTER your verification visit (Green Hotline, 877-NAHB-GRN)

• You should call Home Innovation, never NAHB for verification clarification

• Most buildings have extra points built in to provide for a margin of error. If a building has more than enough points to qualify for a given level in each section; don’t fret over few uncertain points.

No Points for “Gaming the System”

• No points for not meeting the intent of the requirement whether by intentionally or unintentionally taking advantage of how the criteria is worded

• For example, claiming points for a less than 1.6 gpf toilet simply because the float mechanism of a standard toilet has been adjusted to be less than 1.6 gpf

NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines have 3 ma ndatory items (These are required but do not earn points in these sections)

• 3.1.1 REScheck, RemRate, EnergyGauge or equivalent • 3.1.2 Manual J report or equivalent • 3.1.3 Plan review and verification: Thermal bypass checklist

The ANSI National Green Building Standard mandatory items

• The Standard has approximately 41 mandatory items depending on the path chosen, and these items may or may not earn points per the Verifier’s Resource Guide.

Minimum points required for each section

• Minimums vary per section for each level (Bronze, Silver, Gold or Emerald)

• Plus required additional points to achieve each certification level

� 100 additional points are required above the minimums for all certification levels in the Guidelines and the Standard, except for the Bronze level of the Standard, where only 50 additional points are required


APPENDIX B SUMMARY OF CHANGES

CHANGES* TO VERIFIFERS RESOURCE GUIDE

V4.0 Original issue for 2012 NGBS 2/12/2013

V4.1 January 2014

page 3 – clarified photo expectations

page 4 – clarified who can do inspections

page 5 – clarified local code vs NGBS; multi-family registration process

page 7 – added policy on delayed report submissions

page 10 – clarified submitting technical questions

page 13 – clarified sampling

page 15 – Builders Challenge & DOE Challenge Home not part of NGBS

503.1 – clarified (2) & (3)

505.3 – clarified density

609.1 – clarified regional material

610.1.2 – clarified LCA

701.3 – clarified 3rd party review

701.4.3.2 (1) – testing option requires inspection tobe sure insulation is better than grade 3

704.4 – added missing practices

801.6.5(2) – clarified requirements from 503.5

901.2.1 – clarified EPA certified

page 92 – added section on Remodeling

page 94 – updated info on Land Development certification

*The above list represents significant changes, minor editorial changes are not listed.

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