ENERGY STAR certification: HERS-index target + Rater field checklist + HVAC quality install
ENERGY STAR SFNH §Overview — Certification pathDescription
ENERGY STAR-certified single-family new homes must satisfy ALL of: (1) a HERS Index score at or below the ENERGY STAR Reference Design score (set per climate zone — typically HERS 50-60); (2) the National Rater Field Checklist (insulation grade, air barrier continuity, water management); (3) the National HVAC System Quality Installation contractor checklist + design report. Third-party verification by a HERS Rater is required. Solar-PV does NOT count toward the HERS target unless the home is BOTH ENERGY STAR + Zero Energy Ready certified.
Why this exists
ENERGY STAR is the most widely-recognized above-code certification in US residential. Architects designing to ENERGY STAR should engage a HERS Rater EARLY (pre-construction documents) so the design and the HERS modeling iterate together. Trying to certify after construction is wildly more expensive.
Categories
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Slab-on-grade vapor barrier + capillary break required · HUD RSDG §4.6
- Roof overhangs protect walls — 12-24 inches in humid climates; one foot per story below · HUD RSDG §5.6.5
- Grade I insulation installation: no gaps, no compression, fully filling cavity, supported aligned with air barrier · ENERGY STAR SFNH §Rater Field Checklist — Section 1 (Insulation + Air Barrier)
- Continuous air barrier on all six sides of conditioned space — including rim joists, knee walls, attic floor · ENERGY STAR SFNH §Air Barrier — continuous on all six sides of every conditioned space
- Water-managed envelope: continuous drainage plane behind cladding, kick-out flashing at all roof-wall intersections, pan flashing at all windows + doors · ENERGY STAR SFNH §Rater Field Checklist — Section 4 (Water Management)
Last reviewed 2026-05-15.