Why energy code comments show up
Every new house and most additions must meet the energy code your state has adopted — usually a version of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or Chapter 11 of the IRC, and in some states their own code (California's Title 24 is the best-known). Stock plans are drawn for no particular climate, so they rarely include the insulation values, window ratings and notes your jurisdiction needs.
Requirements depend on your climate zone and code edition, which is why the same plan can pass in one county and get energy comments in the next.
The three compliance paths
| Path | How it works | Typical documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Prescriptive | Meet the table values for your climate zone: insulation R-values, window U-factor and SHGC. | Energy notes and a wall section on the drawings |
| Total UA / trade-off | Trade stronger components for weaker ones overall, commonly using DOE's REScheck software. | REScheck compliance report |
| Performance / ERI | Energy model of the whole house compared to a reference design. | Energy model report, often by a rater or consultant |
Many jurisdictions accept the prescriptive path for simple houses, which can be handled entirely with notes on the drawings.
The most common energy comments
| Comment | Usual fix |
|---|---|
| “Show insulation R-values for ceiling, walls, floor and slab.” | Add values per climate zone to the wall section and energy notes. |
| “Provide window U-factor and SHGC.” | Add to the window schedule or energy notes. |
| “Provide energy compliance documentation.” | Prescriptive notes, a REScheck report or a performance model, per local rules. |
| “Show air barrier and air sealing / blower door test.” | Add air barrier details and a note requiring testing to the code's maximum air leakage rate. |
| “Duct insulation / duct leakage testing.” | Add duct location, insulation and testing notes. |
| “Mechanical ventilation required.” | Show whole-house ventilation method and rate. |
What to show on the drawings
- Climate zone and code edition used.
- A typical wall section with insulation values for each assembly.
- Window schedule with U-factor and SHGC.
- Air barrier, air sealing and testing notes.
- Duct and mechanical ventilation notes.
- Any compliance report referenced by name.
Estimate federal and state rebates and credits for efficient homes and upgrades.
Check rebatesWho handles what
Energy notes and details on the drawings are drafting work — our Permit Correction Service adds them for $499 flat along with every other drafting comment. Compliance calculations (REScheck reports, performance models, state-specific forms) are listed separately; depending on your jurisdiction they're prepared by the designer, an energy consultant or a HERS rater. We tell you exactly which your letter requires.
Bonus: rebates and credits
Going beyond code minimums can qualify a new home or upgrades for tax credits and utility rebates. See the home energy rebate calculator and energy efficient home improvement credit.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my permit get energy code comments?
Your drawings did not show how the house meets the energy code for your climate zone — insulation values, window ratings, air sealing or a compliance report.
Do I need a REScheck report?
Only if your jurisdiction requires it or you use the trade-off path. Many jurisdictions accept prescriptive compliance shown with notes and details on the drawings.
What is a blower door test?
A test that measures how airtight the house is. Current energy codes set a maximum air leakage rate, verified by testing before occupancy.
Is California Title 24 the same as the IECC?
No. California uses its own energy code (Title 24, Part 6) with its own forms and compliance software.
Can you fix energy comments on my drawings?
Yes — we add energy notes, R-values, window ratings and details for $499 flat. Compliance calculations are identified separately.