Title 24 · California Energy Code

Fenestration and insulation labeling, certification and acceptance prior to occupancy

Before a final occupancy permit in California, windows and other glazed products must keep their temporary labels (or label certificates for site‑built units) listing certified U‑factor and SHGC until inspected; site‑built fenestration in non‑low‑rise buildings must have matching label certificates and a Certificate of Acceptance submitted; and all insulation must be manufactured with State certification of thermal performance per Title 24. These steps are required by **§ A6.205.1.1.4**, **§ A6.205.1.1.5** (CalGreen Appendix A6) and **§ 110.8(a)** (Energy Code) file.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Before final occupancy the building must have fenestration (windows, glazed doors, site-built fenestration) properly labeled and—when required—certified and accepted; and all insulation installed must be certified by the State for thermal performance. The controlling CalGreen provisions for fenestration labeling and acceptance are § A6.205.1.1.4 and § A6.205.1.1.5; the controlling Energy Code requirement for insulation certification is § 110.8(a). See CalGreen Appendix A6 for the labeling/acceptance detail and Section 110.8(a) for insulation certification requirements .

The single most important rule: temporary fenestration labels (or label certificates for site-built units) must remain in place until inspected, site-built fenestration must have a matching label certificate and a submitted Certificate of Acceptance before occupancy, and manufacturers must have State certification for insulation thermal performance (per § A6.205.1.1.4 / § A6.205.1.1.5 and § 110.8(a)) .


Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first use)

  • temporary label — label placed on manufactured fenestration or a label certificate for site-built fenestration that must not be removed before inspection (see § A6.205.1.1.4) .
  • permanent label — NFRC-style permanent label or label certificate required when product is rated using NFRC procedures (see § A6.205.1.1.4) .
  • Certificate of Acceptance — the document submitted to the enforcement agency certifying site-built fenestration meets the Acceptance Requirements (see § A6.205.1.1.5) .
  • manufacturer’s insulation certification — State certification that the insulation’s conductive thermal performance complies with Title 24 Part 12 test/approval standards (see § 110.8(a)) .

Fenestration: labeling and acceptance (CalGreen Appendix A6)

  • Temporary label (or label certificate for site‑built fenestration) must:
    • Meet Title 24, Part 1 labeling requirements (Section 10‑111(a)1) and remain in place until inspection. The temporary label must list the certified U‑factor and SHGC and must certify compliance with the air leakage requirements of the referenced CalGreen section § A6.205.1.1.1 .
  • Permanent label (or label certificate for site‑built fenestration):
    • Required when product is rated using NFRC procedures and must meet Title 24, Part 1 requirements (Section 10‑111(a)2) .
  • Site-built fenestration acceptance (before occupancy):
    • Site‑built fenestration in other than low‑rise residential buildings must be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance specified in the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7; a matching label certificate for each product installed must be on site and readily accessible; and a Certificate of Acceptance must be submitted to the enforcement agency before an occupancy permit is granted (see § A6.205.1.1.5) .
  • Exception:
    • Fenestration products removed and reinstalled as part of a building alteration/addition are excepted from the acceptance requirement in § A6.205.1.1.5 .

Table — Decision‑relevant dimensions/values for fenestration acceptance and labeling

Decision item Required value / action Where to show it Code Reference
Temporary label presence Must be on product and not removed before inspection On each manufactured product (or label certificate for site‑built) § A6.205.1.1.4
Data on temporary label U‑factor, SHGC, and air leakage certification On temporary label/label certificate § A6.205.1.1.4
Permanent label Required if rated under NFRC procedures Permanently on product (or label certificate) § A6.205.1.1.4
Site‑built fenestration acceptance Matching label certificate for each installed product; Certificate of Acceptance submitted before occupancy Project site / enforcement agency submittal § A6.205.1.1.5

Insulation: manufacturer certification and installation notes (Energy Code)

  • Manufacturer certification:
    • All insulation must be certified by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services that the insulation’s conductive thermal performance is approved under the Standards for Insulating Material (Title 24, Part 12, Ch.12–13, Art.3), per § 110.8(a) .
  • Packaging / identification:
    • California standards require visible Commission‑approved statements on product packaging or containers certifying representative testing and approval (see insulation identification provisions in the Referenced Standards Code) .
  • Special installation notes included in Section 110.8:
    • Urea formaldehyde foam: installation restrictions (only in exterior side walls plus required 4‑mil plastic vapor retarder) (see § 110.8(b)) .
    • Insulation must meet flame spread and smoke density requirements of the CBC (see § 110.8(c)) .
    • For existing buildings, contractors must certify in writing to the customer that insulation installed meets the applicable requirements (see § 110.8(d)) .

Table — Decision‑relevant items for insulation certification/acceptance

Decision item Required action / threshold Where to record / show Code Reference
Manufacturer thermal certification State certification (Dept. of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services) Manufacturer documentation; packaging label or certification statement § 110.8(a)
Packaging identification Visible Commission‑approved statement certifying testing/approval On container, bundle or packaging Referenced Standards § 12‑13‑1557 as applied in Title 24 (packaging ID)
Contractor certification (existing building installations) Contractor provides written certification to customer Project records / customer handoff § 110.8(d)
Combustibility labeling If flame spread > 25 with facings, must have warning label On product label / documentation Referenced Standards (labeling requirement)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Exception for alterations: fenestration removed and reinstalled as part of an alteration/addition are not subject to the acceptance requirement in § A6.205.1.1.5 (CalGreen) .
  • NFRC rating: if product is rated under NFRC, a permanent label (or label certificate) is required in addition to the temporary label under § A6.205.1.1.4 .
  • Field‑fabricated fenestration: may be used only where compliance documentation demonstrates compliance using the applicable default U‑factors and SHGC tables and must be caulked and weatherstripped (see related Energy Code provisions) — these are separate installation requirements and exceptions are listed in the Energy Code tables and sections .
  • Urea formaldehyde foam insulation: limited to exterior side walls and requires a 4‑mil polyethylene vapor retarder between insulation and interior space (see § 110.8(b)) .

If you need a complete list of the default U‑factors/SHGC or the NA7 acceptance tests referenced for site‑built fenestration, those are contained in the Energy Code tables and Reference Appendices NA6/NA7; I can extract those exact table entries on request (they were not reproduced in full here) file.


Common mistakes

  • Removing the temporary label before inspection (temporary labels must remain until enforcement inspection) — common cause of failed final inspection under § A6.205.1.1.4 .
  • Not providing a matching label certificate or not having it readily accessible for site‑built fenestration, which prevents issuance of final occupancy per § A6.205.1.1.5 .
  • Accepting insulation without a manufacturer’s State certification or with inconsistent thermal performance claims (labels/advertising must be consistent with certification) — violations of § 110.8(a) and the Referenced Standards labeling rules file.
  • Contractor fails to provide the required written certification to the customer when insulating an existing building attic (required by § 110.8(d)) .
  • Confusing manufacturer label vs. label certificate requirements for site‑built assemblies — a label certificate is the acceptable alternative for site‑built fenestration but must match what was installed and be available for inspection (§ A6.205.1.1.4/1.5) .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Project: New nonresidential medical office (site‑built curtainwall installation)

Facts:

  • Site‑built curtainwall, total glazed area 500 ft².
  • Manufacturer / fabricator derives U‑factor = 0.35 (certified) and SHGC = 0.30.
  • This is site‑built (not factory manufactured).

Steps to comply:

  1. The fabricator provides a label certificate for the site‑built curtainwall that lists the certified U‑factor = 0.35 and SHGC = 0.30, and includes a statement certifying compliance with air leakage requirements referenced in CalGreen (per § A6.205.1.1.4) . The temporary label / label certificate is placed on the product and not removed before inspection.
  2. The installer leaves a matching label certificate with the job files and makes it readily accessible on site.
  3. Before the authority issues final occupancy, the responsible person completes and submits a Certificate of Acceptance certifying the site‑built fenestration meets the Acceptance Requirements in Appendix NA7; the enforcement agency receives that certificate and inspects the label certificate on site (per § A6.205.1.1.5) .
  4. Insulation used elsewhere in the building (e.g., R‑30 ceiling batt) must be from a manufacturer with State certification of thermal performance; the manufacturer’s documentation (and visible packaging statement where applicable) is retained in the project record per § 110.8(a) and the Referenced Standards requirements file.
  5. If the insulation were being installed in an existing attic, the contractor would give the homeowner a written certification that the installed insulation meets the applicable code requirements § 110.8(d) .

Result: Final occupancy is granted only after the enforcement agency verifies the temporary label/label certificate was present at inspection, the matching label certificate was accessible on site, and the Certificate of Acceptance was submitted for the site‑built curtainwall; and insulation manufacturer certification is on file per § 110.8(a) file.


Related provisions (select)

  • § A6.205.1.1.4 — Fenestration labeling requirements (temporary and permanent label rules) .
  • § A6.205.1.1.5 — Fenestration acceptance requirements; Certificate of Acceptance (site‑built) .
  • § 110.8(a) — Insulation certification by manufacturers (mandatory) .
  • § 110.8(b) — Urea formaldehyde foam installation limitations (vapor retarder requirement) .
  • § 110.8(d) — Contractor certification requirements for insulation installed in existing buildings (attics, ducts, water heaters) .
  • Title 24, Part 1 — § 10‑111(a)1 and § 10‑111(a)2 — Label formatting and content requirements referenced for temporary/permanent labels (CalGreen cross‑reference) .
  • Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7 — Acceptance test procedures referenced for site‑built fenestration acceptance (see § A6.205.1.1.5) file.
  • California Referenced Standards Code — insulation identification and labelling rules (e.g., Sec. 12‑13‑1557) applicable to packaging/labels referenced by § 110.8(a) .

If you want, I can: (a) extract the exact Title 24 Part 1 label text format (Section 10‑111) so you can prepare label content that exactly matches the format inspectors expect, or (b) produce a Certificate of Acceptance checklist tailored to a site‑built curtainwall project for submittal. Tell me which you prefer.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • § 205.1.1.4 High relevance — show source text

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    A6.205.1.1.4 Labeling. Fenestration products shall:

    1. Have a temporary label (or label certificate for site- built fenestration) meeting the requirements of Section 10111(a)1 of Title 24, Part 1 not to be removed before inspection by the enforcement agency, listing the certified U factor and SHGC and certifying that the air leakage requirements of Section A6.205.1.1.1 are met for each product line; and
    2. Have a permanent label (or label certificate for site-built fenestration) meeting the requirements of Section 10111(a)2 of Title 24, Part 1 if the product is rated using NFRC procedures.

    A6.205.1.1.5 Fenestration acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted, site-built fenestration products in other than low-rise residential buildings shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance, as specified by the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7 of the California Energy Commission 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings to ensure that site-built fenestration meet Standards requirements, including a matching label certificate for each product installed and be readily accessible at the project location. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency that certifies that the fenestration product meets the acceptance requirements.

    Exception: Fenestration products removed and reinstalled as part of a building alteration or addition.

    A6.205.1.2 Installation of field-fabricated fenestration and exterior doors. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors may be installed only if the compliance documentation has demonstrated compliance for the installation using U factors from Table A6.205.1-A and SHGC values from Table A6.205.1-B. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors shall be caulked between the fenestration products or exterior door and the building and shall be weatherstripped.

    Exception: Unframed glass doors and fire doors need not be weatherstripped or caulked.

    A6.205.2 Joints and other openings. Joints and other openings in the building envelope that are potential sources of air leakage shall be caulked, gasketed, weatherstripped or otherwise sealed to limit infiltration and exfiltration.

    A6.205.3 Insulation and roofing products.

    A6.205.3.1 Certification by manufacturers. Any insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Good and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12-13, Article 3,“Standards for Insulating Material.”

    A6.205.3.2 Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:

    1. It is installed in exterior side walls; and

    2. A four-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor barrier or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor barrier is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.

  • § 110.6 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 2 to Section 110.6(a)4: If the fenestration product is an alteration consisting of any area; replacement of glass in a skylight product in a building covered by the nonresidential standards, the default VT may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6. 5. Labeling. Fenestration products and exterior doors shall: A. Have a temporary label for manufactured fenestration products and exterior doors or a label certificate when the component modeling approach (CMA) is used and for site-built fenestration meeting the requirements of Section 10-111(a)1. The temporary label shall not be removed before inspection by the enforcement agency; and B. Have a permanent label or label certificate when the component modeling approach (CMA) is used and for sitebuilt fenestration meeting the requirements of Section 10-111(a)2 if the product is rated using NFRC procedures. 6. Fenestration acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted site-built fenestration products in other than single-family buildings shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance, as specified in the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7 to ensure that site-built fenestration meets Standards requirements, including a matching label certificate for product(s) installed and be readily accessible at the project location. A certificate of accep

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 55

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    tance certifying that the fenestration product meets the acceptance requirements shall be completed, signed and submitted to the enforcement agency. Exception to Section 110.6(a): Fenestration products removed and reinstalled as part of a building alteration or addition.

    (b) Installation of field-fabricated fenestration and exterior doors. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors may be installed only if the compliance documentation has demonstrated compliance for the installation using U factors from Table 110.6-A and SHGC values from Table 110.6-B. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors shall be caulked between the fenestration products or exterior door and the building, and shall be weatherstripped.

    Exception to Section 110.6(b): Unframed glass doors and fire doors need not be weatherstripped or caulked.

    TABLE 110.6-A—DEFAULT FENESTRATION PRODUCT U-FACTORS Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    FRAME1,2 PRODUCT TYPE SINGLE PANE3, 4
    U-FACTOR
    DOUBLE PANE1, 3, 4
    U-FACTOR
    GLASS BLOCK2, 3
    U-FACTOR
    Metal Operable 1.28 0.79 0.87
    Metal Fixed 1.19 0.71 0.72
    Metal Greenhouse/garden window 2.26 1.40 NA
    Metal Glazed doors 1.25 0.77 NA
    Metal Skylight 1.98 1.3 NA
    Metal, thermal break Operable NA 0.66 NA
    Metal,
  • § 0.69 High relevance — show source text

    A.| |Metal, thermal break|Fixed|Clear|N.A.|0.69|N.A.| |Metal, thermal break|Operable|Tinted|N.A.|0.53|N.A.| |Metal, thermal break|Fixed|Tinted|N.A.|0.57|N.A.| |Nonmetal|Operable|Clear|0.74|0.65|0.70| |Nonmetal|Fixed|Clear|0.76|0.67|0.67| |Nonmetal|Operable|Tinted|0.60|0.53|N.A.| |Nonmetal|Fixed|Tinted|0.63|0.55|N.A.| |N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|N.A. = Not applicable.
    1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values.|

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-5

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    A6.205.1.1.4 Labeling. Fenestration products shall:

    1. Have a temporary label (or label certificate for site- built fenestration) meeting the requirements of Section 10111(a)1 of Title 24, Part 1 not to be removed before inspection by the enforcement agency, listing the certified U factor and SHGC and certifying that the air leakage requirements of Section A6.205.1.1.1 are met for each product line; and
    2. Have a permanent label (or label certificate for site-built fenestration) meeting the requirements of Section 10111(a)2 of Title 24, Part 1 if the product is rated using NFRC procedures.

    A6.205.1.1.5 Fenestration acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted, site-built fenestration products in other than low-rise residential buildings shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance, as specified by the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7 of the California Energy Commission 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings to ensure that site-built fenestration meet Standards requirements, including a matching label certificate for each product installed and be readily accessible at the project location. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency that certifies that the fenestration product meets the acceptance requirements.

    Exception: Fenestration products removed and reinstalled as part of a building alteration or addition.

  • § 110.6 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 1 to Section 110.6(a)2: If the fenestration product is a skylight in a building covered by the nonresidential standards with less than 200 square feet of skylight area, the default U -factor may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.

    Exception 2 to Section 110.6(a)2: If the fenestration product is an alteration consisting of any area replacement of glass in a skylight product in a building covered by the nonresidential standards, the default U -factor may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6. 3. Solar heat gain coefficient SHGC. The fenestration product’s SHGC shall be rated in accordance with NFRC 200, or use the applicable default SHGC set forth in Table 110.6-B.

    Exception 1 to Section 110.6(a)3: If the fenestration product is a skylight in a building covered by the nonresidential standards with less than 200 square feet of skylight area, the default SHGC may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.

    Exception 2 to Section 110.6(a)3: If the fenestration product is an alteration consisting of any area replacement of glass in a skylight product in a building covered by the nonresidential standards, the default SHGC may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6. 4. Visible transmittance (VT). The fenestration product’s VT shall be rated in accordance with NFRC 200 or ASTM E972. For tubular daylighting devices VT shall be rated using NFRC 203.

    Exception 1 to Section 110.6(a)4: If the fenestration product is a skylight in a building covered by the nonresidential standards with less than 200 square feet of skylight area, the default VT may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.

    Exception 2 to Section 110.6(a)4: If the fenestration product is an alteration consisting of any area; replacement of glass in a skylight product in a building covered by the nonresidential standards, the default VT may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6. 5. Labeling. Fenestration products and exterior doors shall: A. Have a temporary label for manufactured fenestration products and exterior doors or a label certificate when the component modeling approach (CMA) is used and for site-built fenestration meeting the requirements of Section 10-111(a)1. The temporary label shall not be removed before inspection by the enforcement agency; and B. Have a permanent label or label certificate when the component modeling approach (CMA) is used and for sitebuilt fenestration meeting the requirements of Section 10-111(a)2 if the product is rated using NFRC procedures. 6. Fenestration acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted site-built fenestration products in other than single-family buildings shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance, as specified in the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7 to ensure that site-built fenestration meets Standards requirements, including a matching label certificate for product(s) installed and be readily accessible at the project location. A certificate of accep

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 55

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

  • § 0.004 High relevance — show source text

    35|0.004|–|–| |0.71
    |0.013
    |0.003
    |–
    | |1.06
    |0.025
    |0.005
    |–
    | |1.41
    |0.041
    |0.008
    |–
    | |1.77
    |0.060
    |0.012
    |–
    | |2.12
    |0.082
    |0.016
    |–
    | |2.47
    |0.107
    |0.021
    |–
    | |2.82
    |0.135
    |0.026
    |–
    | |3.18|0.166|0.032|–| |3.53|0.199|0.038|–| |4.24|0.274|0.053|–| |4.94|0.359|0.069|–| |5.65|0.454|0.087|–| |6.36|0.558|0.107|–| |7.06|0.672|0.129|0.033| |7.77|0.795|0.153|0.039| |8.47|0.927|0.179|0.045| |9.18|1.066|0.205|0.052| |9.89|1.218|0.233|0.059| |10.59|1.377|0.263|0.066| |12.36|1.811|0.346|0.087| |14.12|2.298|0.438|0.110| |15.89|2.837|0.539|0.135| |17.66|3.456|0.650|0.163| |19.42|–|0.771|0.193| |21.19|–|0.900|0.225| |22.95|–|1.038|0.260| |24.72|–|1.185|0.295| |28.25|–|1.505|0.375| |31.78|–|1.859|0.463| |35.31|–|2.247|0.559| |38.84|–|2.667|0.663| |42.37|–|3.121|0.775| |45.90|–|3.607|0.895| |49.43|–|4.125|1.022| |52.97|–|–|1.157| |56.50|–|–|1.299| |60.03|–|–|1.449| |63.56|–|–|1.607| |67.09|–|–|1.772| |70.62|–|–|1.944| |81.21|–|–|2.503| |91.81|–|–|3.127| |102.40|–|–|3.813|

    For SI units: 1 standard cubic foot per minute = 28.32 SLPM, 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa

  • § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
    2. The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.

    (c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.

    (d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.

    (e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.

    (f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were

    98 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

  • § 110.8 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 110.8—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR INSULATION, ROOFING PRODUCTS AND RADIANT BARRIERS

    (a) Insulation certification by manufacturers. All insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12 – 13, Article 3, “Standards for Insulating Material.”

    (b) Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:

    1. It is installed in exterior side walls; and

    2. A 4-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor retarder or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor retarder is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.

    (c) Flamespread rating of insulation. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flamespread rating and smoke density requirements of the CBC.

    (d) Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic, or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below.

    1. Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R -value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall meet the requirements of Section 150.0(a) for single-family buildings and Section 180.2(a)1 for multifamily buildings three habitable stories or fewer. Exception to Section 110.8(d)1: Where the accessible space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required R -value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation, provided such installation does not violate Section 1202.2 of Title 24, Part 2 or Section 806 of Title 24, Part 2.5.
    2. Water heaters. If external insulation is installed on an existing unfired water storage tank or on an existing back-up tank for a solar water-heating system, it shall have an R -value of at least R-3.5, or the heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot.
    3. Ducts. If insulation is installed on an existing space-conditioning duct, it shall comply with Section 605.0 of the CMC.

    (e) Reserved.

    (f) Reserved.

    (g) Insulation requirements for heated slab floors. Heated slab floors shall be insulated according to the requirements in Table 110.8-A.

    1. Insulation materials in ground contact must: A. Comply with the certification requirements of Section 110.8(a); and B. Have a water absorption rate for the insulation material alone without facings that is no greater than 0.3 percent when tested in accordance with Test Method A – 24 Hour-Immersion of ASTM C272.

    C. Water vapor permeance no greater than 2.0 perm/ inch when tested in accordance with ASTM E96.

    1. Insulation installation must:
  • § 803.2 High relevance — show source text

    (1) Visual inspection of the equipment and installation.

    (2) Review of the certification requirements.

    (3) Functional tests of the systems and controls.

    E 803.2 Construction Documents. Details of commissioning acceptance requirements shall be incorporated into the construction documents, including information that describes the details of the functional tests to be performed. This information shall be permitted to be integrated into the specifications for testing and air balancing, energy management and control system, equipment startup procedures or commissioning. It is possible that the work will be performed by a combination of the test and balance (TAB) contractor,

    480 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

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    APPENDIX E

    mechanical/electrical contractor, and the energy management control system (EMCS) contractor, so applicable roles and responsibilities shall be clearly called out.

    E 803.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities. The roles and responsibilities of the persons involved in commissioning acceptance are included in Section E 803.2.1.1 through Section E 803.2.1.3.

    E 803.2.1.1 Field Technician. The field technician shall be responsible for performing and documenting the results of the acceptance procedures on the certificate of acceptance forms. The field technician shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information he provides on the certificate of acceptance is true and correct.

    E 803.2.1.2 Responsible Person. The responsible person shall be the contractor or registered design professional of record. A certificate of acceptance shall be signed by a responsible person to take responsibility for the scope of work specified by the certificate of acceptance document. The responsible person shall perform the field testing and verification work, and where this is the case, the responsible person shall complete and sign both the field technician’s signature block and the responsible person’s signature block on the certificate of acceptance form. The responsible person assumes responsibility for the acceptance testing work performed by the field technician agent or employee. E 803.2.1.3 Certificate of Acceptance. The certificate of acceptance shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction in order to receive the final certificate of occupancy. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not release a final certificate of occupancy unless the submitted certificate of acceptance demonstrates that the specified systems and equipment have been shown to be performing in accordance with the applicable acceptance requirements. The Authority Having Jurisdiction has the authority to require the field technician and responsible person to demonstrate competence, to its satisfaction. Certificate of acceptance forms are located in Section E 806.0.

    E 804.0 Commissioning Tests. E 804.1 General. Functional tests shall be performed on new equipment and systems installed in either new construction or retrofit applications in accordance with this section. The appropriate certificate of acceptance form along with each specific test shall be completed and submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction before a final occupancy permit can be granted.

    E 804.2 Tests. Functional testing shall be performed on the devices and systems listed in this section. The functional test results are documented using the applicable certificate of acceptance forms shown in parenthesis and located in Section E 806.0. The functional tests shall be performed in accordance with Section E 805.0 using the following forms:

    (1) Minimum ventilation controls for constant and variable air volume systems (Form MECH-2A).

  • § 804.3 High relevance — show source text

    (3) Duct leakage on a subset of small single-zone systems depending on the ductwork location (Form MECH-4A).

    (4) Air economizer controls for economizers that are not factory installed and tested (Form MECH-5A).

    (5) Demand-controlled ventilation control systems (Form MECH-6A).

    (6) Supply fan variable flow controls (Form MECH-7A).

    (7) Valve leakage for hydronic variable flow systems and isolation valves on chillers and boilers in plants with more than one chiller or boiler being served by the same primary pumps through a common header (Form MECH8A).

    (8) Supply water temperature reset control strategies programmed into the building automation system for water systems (e.g., chilled, hot, or condenser water) (Form MECH-9A).

    (9) Hydronic variable flow controls on a water system where the pumps are controlled by variable frequency drives (e.g., chilled and hot water systems; water-loop heat pump systems) (Form MECH-10A).

    (10)Automatic demand shed control (Form MECH-11A).

    (11)Fault detection and diagnostic for DX units (Form MECH-12A).

    (12)Automatic fault detection and diagnostic systems (AFDD) (Form MECH-13A).

    (13)Distributed energy storage DEC/DX AC systems (Form MECH-14A).

    (14)Thermal energy storage (TES) systems (Form MECH15A). E 804.3 Acceptance Process. The functional testing process shall comply with Section E 804.3.1 through Section E 804.3.4.

    E 804.3.1 Plan Review. The installing contractor, registered design professional of record, owner’s agent, or the person responsible for certification of the acceptance testing on the certificate of acceptance (responsible person) shall review the plans and specifications to ensure that they are in accordance with the acceptance requirements. This is typically done prior to signing a certificate of compliance. E 804.3.2 Construction Inspection. The installing contractor, registered design professional of record, owner’s agent, or the person responsible for certification of the acceptance testing on the certificate of acceptance (responsible person) shall perform a construction inspection prior to testing to ensure that the equipment that is installed is capable of complying with the requirements of this appendix and is calibrated. The installation of associated systems and equipment necessary for proper system operation is required to be completed prior to the testing.

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    APPENDIX E

    E 804.3.3 Acceptance Testing. One or more field technicians shall perform the acceptance testing; identify performance deficiencies; ensure that they are corrected; and where necessary, repeat the acceptance procedures until the specified systems and equipment are performing in accordance with the acceptance requirements. The field technician who performs the testing shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify the information has been provided to document the results of the acceptance procedures is true and correct.

    The responsible person shall review the test results from the acceptance requirement procedures provided by the field technician and sign the certificate of acceptance to certify compliance with the acceptance requirements. The responsible person shall be permitted to perform the field technician’s responsibilities, and shall then sign the field technician declaration on the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information on the form is true and correct.

  • § 804.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    This is typically done prior to signing a certificate of compliance. E 804.3.2 Construction Inspection. The installing contractor, registered design professional of record, owner’s agent, or the person responsible for certification of the acceptance testing on the certificate of acceptance (responsible person) shall perform a construction inspection prior to testing to ensure that the equipment that is installed is capable of complying with the requirements of this appendix and is calibrated. The installation of associated systems and equipment necessary for proper system operation is required to be completed prior to the testing.

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    APPENDIX E

    E 804.3.3 Acceptance Testing. One or more field technicians shall perform the acceptance testing; identify performance deficiencies; ensure that they are corrected; and where necessary, repeat the acceptance procedures until the specified systems and equipment are performing in accordance with the acceptance requirements. The field technician who performs the testing shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify the information has been provided to document the results of the acceptance procedures is true and correct.

    The responsible person shall review the test results from the acceptance requirement procedures provided by the field technician and sign the certificate of acceptance to certify compliance with the acceptance requirements. The responsible person shall be permitted to perform the field technician’s responsibilities, and shall then sign the field technician declaration on the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information on the form is true and correct.

    E 804.3.4 Certificate of Occupancy. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not issue the final certificate of occupancy until required certificates of acceptance are submitted. Copies of completed, signed certificates of acceptance are required to be posted, or made available with the permit(s), and shall be made available to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    E 805.0 HVAC System Tests.

    E 805.1 Variable Air Volume Systems (Form MECH- 2A). This test ensures that adequate outdoor air ventilation is provided through the variable air volume air handling unit at two representative operating conditions. The test consists of measuring outdoor air values at maximum flow and at or near minimum flow. The test verifies that the minimum volume of outdoor air is introduced to the air handling unit where the system is in occupied mode at these two conditions of supply airflow. This test shall be performed in conjunction with supply fan variable flow controls test procedures to reduce the overall system testing time as both tests use the same two conditions of airflow for their measurements.

    E 805.1.1 Test Procedure. The procedure for performing a functional test for variable air volume systems shall be in accordance with Section E 805.1.1.1 and Sec tion E 805.1.1.2.

    E 805.1.1.1 Construction Inspection. Prior to functional testing, verify and document that the system controlling outside airflow is calibrated either in the field or factory.

    E 805.1.1.2 Functional Testing. The functional testing shall be in accordance with the following steps:

    Step 1: Where the system has an outdoor air economizer, force the economizer high limit to disable economizer control (e.g., for a fixed dry-bulb high limit, lower the setpoint below the current outdoor air temperature).

    Step 2: Adjust supply airflow to either the sum of the minimum zone airflows or 30 percent of the total design airflow. Verify and document the following:

  • § 2602.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    PERFORMANCE TESTS

    Sec. 12-13-1559.

    The Commission may conduct, or may contract with others to conduct, independent performance tests of representative samples of insulation sold in the state to determine compliance with standards adopted pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such tests shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

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    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    COSTS OF INSPECTION AND TESTING (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1560.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    ENFORCEMENT (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1561.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25931, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).

    RELEASE OF INFORMATION

  • § 150.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 150.2 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. C. Multifamily buildings. Section 180.0 applies to new construction in existing multifamily buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 180.0 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specifies which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 180.0 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. 4. Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Section 110.8(d) applies to buildings in which insulation is being installed in existing attics, or on existing water heaters or existing space conditioning ducts. 5. Outdoor lighting. Sections 110.9, 130.0, 130.2, 130.4, 140.7, and 150.0 apply to newly constructed outdoor lighting systems, and Section 141.0 applies to outdoor lighting that is either added or altered. 6. Signs. Sections 130.0, 130.3 and 140.8 apply to newly constructed signs located either indoors or outdoors, and Section 141.0 applies to sign alterations located either indoors or outdoors.

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    (f) Mixed occupancy. When a building is designed and constructed for more than one type of occupancy (residential and nonresidential), the space for each occupancy shall meet the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.

    Exception 1 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 80 percent of the conditioned floor area of the building, the entire building envelope, HVAC and water heating may be designed to comply with the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy, provided that the applicable lighting requirements in Sections 140.6 through 140.8, 150.0(k), or 160.5 and 170.2(e) are met for each occupancy and space, and mandatory measures in Sections 110.0 through 130.5, 150.0, and 160.0 through 160.9 are met for each occupancy and space.

    Exception 2 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 90 percent of the combined conditioned plus unconditioned floor area of the building, the entire building indoor lighting may be designed to comply with only the lighting provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.

    (g) Administrative requirements. Administrative requirements relating to permit requirements, enforcement by the Commission, locally adopted energy standards, interpretations, claims of exemption, approved calculation methods, rights of appeal, and certification and labeling requirements of fenestration products and roofing products are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Sections 10-101 to 10-114.

    (h) Certification requirements for manufactured equipment, products and devices. Part 6 limits the installation of manufactured equipment, products and devices to those that have been certified as specified by Sections 110.0 and 110.1. Requirements for manufactured equipment, products, and devices, when not specified in Title 24 Part 6, are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1601–1609.

Frequently asked questions

What must remain on the product until inspection?

A temporary label (or label certificate for site‑built fenestration) that lists the certified U‑factor and SHGC and certifies air leakage compliance must remain until the enforcement agency inspects it — see § A6.205.1.1.4 .

Who must certify insulation thermal performance?

The manufacturer must have the insulation certified by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services per § 110.8(a); packaging must bear the required visible Commission‑approved statement per the Referenced Standards file.

When is a Certificate of Acceptance required for fenestration?

Before an occupancy permit is issued for buildings other than low‑rise residential, site‑built fenestration must have a matching label certificate on site and a Certificate of Acceptance submitted demonstrating compliance with Appendix NA7 acceptance requirements (§ A6.205.1.1.5) .

Is there an exception for reusing existing windows?

Yes — fenestration products removed and reinstalled as part of a building alteration or addition are excepted from the acceptance requirements in § A6.205.1.1.5 .

What must contractors provide when insulating existing attics?

If a contractor installs insulation in an existing attic, the contractor must certify in writing to the customer that the insulation meets the applicable requirements described in § 110.8(d) .

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