CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code
What certification must installers post when insulating existing buildings?
If a contractor installs insulation in an existing building, they must post a conspicuous, signed certificate when the job is finished that names the manufacturer and product, lists the newly installed R‑value, the estimated original R‑value and the total R‑value, and for loose‑fill insulation states the minimum installed weight per square foot consistent with the manufacturer’s labeled design density (requirement in § 12‑13‑1564).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
When an installing contractor adds insulation to an existing building, the contractor must post a signed certificate, in a conspicuous location, on completion stating that the amount of insulation meets or exceeds the Part 6, Section 118 requirement for that application. This posting must be a certificate signed under penalty of perjury and include the manufacturer and product identification, the R‑value information (new, estimated original, and total) and — for loose‑fill insulation — the minimum contractor‑installed weight per square foot consistent with the manufacturer’s labeled design density. These requirements are set out in § 12-13-1564.
The installing contractor must post, where it can be seen, a signed certificate saying who made the insulation, what the new and total R‑values are, and (for loose‑fill) the installed weight per ft² — proving the job meets Part 6, §118. (See § 12-13-1564.)
Requirements in detail
Who must post
- The installing contractor is the responsible party required to post the certificate on completion. § 12-13-1564(a).
When and where to post
- Post on completion of the installation.
- Post in a conspicuous location (the code text uses this phrase). § 12-13-1564(a).
What the certificate must contain
The certificate must be signed under penalty of perjury and must state at minimum:
- Manufacturer’s name and material identification (product).
- Thermal resistance (R‑value) of the newly installed insulation.
- Estimated R‑value of the original insulation (if any).
- Total R‑value after the new installation.
- For loose‑fill insulation only: the minimum contractor installed weight per square foot, and that this weight conforms with the manufacturer’s installed design density at the labeled R‑value. § 12-13-1564(a).
Code decision table
| Decision factor | Required value / action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Who posts | Installing contractor posts certificate on completion | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Where posted | In a conspicuous location at the job | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Signature | Certificate signed under penalty of perjury | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Content — manufacturer/product | Manufacturer’s name and material identification | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Content — R‑values | Newly installed R‑value; estimated original R‑value; total R‑value | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Loose‑fill specific | Minimum contractor installed weight per ft² conforming with manufacturer’s labeled installed design density at the labeled R‑value | § 12-13-1564(a) |
| Governing performance baseline | Amount of insulation must meet or exceed Title 24, Part 6, Section 118 for that application | § 12-13-1564(a) |
Link to the Part 6 standard
- The certificate demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Part 6, Section 118 for the specific application; the CRSC text ties the installer’s certification obligation directly to that Title 24 performance requirement. § 12-13-1564(a).
Exceptions & special cases
- Water‑heater insulation kits are addressed separately in the same section: sale of kits requires identification and a minimum thermal resistance of R‑6, and kit instructions must meet Department of Energy practice — but that subsection is primarily about sale and labeling of kits, not installer posting obligations. See § 12-13-1564(b).
- The CRSC text does not itself list alternative posting locations or define “conspicuous” beyond the phrase; local jurisdictions or the enforcing agency may have additional placement guidance (the code permits interpretation requests to the Commission — see § 12-13-1565).
- The code requires the posted certificate to show the contractor’s assertions about R‑values and installed weight; it does not prescribe the exact numeric installed densities — those are to come from the manufacturer’s labeled installed design density for the product. § 12-13-1564(a).
Common mistakes
- Assuming only the manufacturer’s certification (required elsewhere) satisfies the installer posting obligation — the installer must post a separate, signed certificate at job completion. Compare § 12-13-1555 (manufacturer certification requirements) with § 12-13-1564 (installer posting).
- Posting an unsigned or informally worded notice; the certificate must be signed under penalty of perjury. § 12-13-1564(a).
- Omitting the estimated R‑value of the original insulation or the installed weight per ft² for loose‑fill products — both are explicit required items. § 12-13-1564(a).
- Misplacing the certificate where it is not conspicuous (e.g., in contractor records only). The statute requires posting in a conspicuous location. § 12-13-1564(a).
Worked example — applying the rule with numbers (illustrative)
Scenario: An installer adds loose‑fill fiberglass to a homeowner’s attic that had an estimated original R‑value of R‑11. The installer adds loose‑fill labeled by the manufacturer as providing R‑19 at the manufacturer’s installed design density. After installation the total R‑value is R‑30 (R‑11 + R‑19).
What must be posted (example text elements; numbers here are illustrative and not code‑mandated):
- Installer posts a certificate in a conspicuous location, signed under penalty of perjury, that states:
- Manufacturer: Acme Insulation Co.; Product ID: Acme Loose‑Fill Fiberglass Model X.
- Newly installed insulation R‑value: R‑19.
- Estimated original insulation R‑value: R‑11.
- Total R‑value after installation: R‑30.
- For loose‑fill: minimum contractor installed weight: 0.9 lb/ft² (example value), and a statement that this conforms with the manufacturer’s labeled installed design density at the labeled R‑value.
Why this satisfies the CRSC requirement:
- The certificate contains the manufacturer/product identification, the newly installed R, the estimated original R, the total R, and the loose‑fill installed weight per ft² — the specific items required by § 12-13-1564(a). The certificate shows compliance with Part 6, §118’s R‑value requirement for the application if that total meets or exceeds the Part 6 threshold. § 12-13-1564(a).
Note: the CRSC requires the posted weight per ft² for loose‑fill to conform with the manufacturer’s installed design density; the CRSC does not itself prescribe a universal numeric density — that figure must come from the product labeling or manufacturer documentation. § 12-13-1564(a).
Related provisions
- § 12-13-1555 — Manufacturer certification of insulating materials (what manufacturers must certify before sale/install).
- § 12-13-1557 — Identification / labeling requirements for insulation containers and packaging.
- § 12-13-1558 — Inspections (access for sampling and records).
- § 12-13-1565 — Interpretation authority; Commission determinations on application/interpretation of article provisions.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRSC § 6-26 High relevance — show source text
HISTORY:
- Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).
RELEASE OF INFORMATION
Sec. 12-13-1562.
Persons submitting information to the Commission who wish information to be kept confidential shall comply with the provisions of Sections 2501-2511 of the Public Resources Code.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25223 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
LIABILITY
Sec. 12-13-1563.
Nothing in this article shall be construed as imposing responsibility on manufacturers for misuse of properly labeled insulation.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25926 and 25931, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
INSULATING EXISTING BUILDINGS
Sec. 12-13-1564.
(a) On or after March 25, 1982, if insulating material is installed in an existing building, in any of the applications specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, Section 118, the installing contractor shall certify that the amount of insulation installed meets or exceeds the requirements of Part 6, Section 118 for that application. Such certification shall be made on completion of the installation by posting in a conspicuous location a certificate signed under penalty of perjury. The certificate shall state the manufacturer’s name and material identification, the thermal resistance ( R -value) of the newly installed insulation, the estimated R -value of the original insulation, the total R -value, and (in application of loose fill insulation) the minimum contractor installed weight per square foot. This installed weight per square foot shall conform with the manufacturer’s installed design density per square foot at the manufacturer’s labeled R -value.
(b) Water heater insulation kits. No water heater insulation kit shall be sold, on or after March 25, 1982, unless it has a thermal resistance of at least R-6 and is so identified.
Each water heater insulation kit sold shall include instructions which are equivalent to the Department of Energy standard practice for the installation of insulation on gas-fired, oil-fired and electric resistance water heaters, 44 Fed. Reg. pages 64703-64705.
Authority: Section 25922, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Section 25922, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
- Editorial correction of subsection (a) filed 1-13-82 (Register 82, No. 2).
INTERPRETATION
Sec. 12-13-1565.
The General Counsel of the Commission shall make a determination as to the application or interpretation of any provision of this article to any person requesting such a determination. Any such request shall be submitted in writing to the Commission. The Commission shall make written replies to such inquiries and shall widely publish interpretations that have broad application or interest.
Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25920 and 25922, Public Resources Code.
CRSC § 12-13 High relevance — show source text
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:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 99
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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:
- 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:
- Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).
RELEASE OF INFORMATION
Sec. 12-13-1562.
Persons submitting information to the Commission who wish information to be kept confidential shall comply with the provisions of Sections 2501-2511 of the Public Resources Code.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25223 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
LIABILITY
Sec. 12-13-1563.
Nothing in this article shall be construed as imposing responsibility on manufacturers for misuse of properly labeled insulation.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25926 and 25931, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
INSULATING EXISTING BUILDINGS
Sec. 12-13-1564.
(a) On or after March 25, 1982, if insulating material is installed in an existing building, in any of the applications specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, Section 118, the installing contractor shall certify that the amount of insulation installed meets or exceeds the requirements of Part 6, Section 118 for that application. Such certification shall be made on completion of the installation by posting in a conspicuous location a certificate signed under penalty of perjury.
CRSC § 8-10 High relevance — show source text
(b) Up to and including September 30, 1982, laboratories shall be approved either upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program or as stated in the preceding paragraph, at the manufacturer’s option. After September 30, 1982, laboratories shall only be approved upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25915(a) and 25921, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81, designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
CERTIFICATION
Sec. 12-13-1555.
(a) No insulating material shall be sold or installed in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the manufacturer has certified that the material complies with the provisions of this article.
(b) The manufacturer shall submit a certification statement to the Executive Director for each type of insulating material. Such statement shall contain the following information:
Name of the manufacturer.
A description of the type of insulating material being certified in sufficient detail to permit its identification. The description may include information sheets, brochures, a sample label for the product or similar information.
Test results from an approved laboratory.
A description of the basis for ensuring that all the insulating material of the type being certified complies with the requirements of this article. Such description shall include, but not be limited to a description of the frequency of testing of the material, the quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections or testing used by the manufacturer.
A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
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:
CRSC § 25920-25922 High relevance — show source text
Authority: Sections 25402(a) and 25920, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25920-25922, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment of subsection (a) (9) filed 4-2-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 14).
- Editorial correction of subsection designations with subsection (l) (4) (Register 79, No. 17).
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
- New subsection (m) (2) (J) filed 9-11-81; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 81, No. 37).
- Editorial correction of subsection (k) (3) (B) filed 1-13-82 (Register 82, No. 3).
- Amendment of subsections (a) (5) and (a) (8) filed 5-5-82; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 82, No. 19).
- Editorial correction of subsection (m) printing error (Register 82, No. 44).
APPROVAL OF TESTING LABORATORIES
Sec. 12-13-1554.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), laboratories shall be approved using the procedures described in the Criteria for the Approval of Testing Laboratories, dated October 27, 1978. The Executive Director shall approve any laboratory that meets the standards described in the Criteria for the Approval of Testing Laboratories, dated October 27, 1978. A testing laboratory shall have the right to appeal to the full Commission any denial of approval by the Executive Director.
(b) Up to and including September 30, 1982, laboratories shall be approved either upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program or as stated in the preceding paragraph, at the manufacturer’s option. After September 30, 1982, laboratories shall only be approved upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25915(a) and 25921, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81, designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
CERTIFICATION
Sec. 12-13-1555.
(a) No insulating material shall be sold or installed in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the manufacturer has certified that the material complies with the provisions of this article.
(b) The manufacturer shall submit a certification statement to the Executive Director for each type of insulating material. Such statement shall contain the following information:
Name of the manufacturer.
A description of the type of insulating material being certified in sufficient detail to permit its identification. The description may include information sheets, brochures, a sample label for the product or similar information.
Test results from an approved laboratory.
A description of the basis for ensuring that all the insulating material of the type being certified complies with the requirements of this article. Such description shall include, but not be limited to a description of the frequency of testing of the material, the quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections or testing used by the manufacturer.
A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
CRSC § 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:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Insulation installation must:
CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text
- A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
- 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:
- 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:
- 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:
A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or
An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.
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.
CRSC § 110.7 High relevance — show source text
Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values when not rated by NFRC 200.
2. Visible Transmittance (VT) shall be calculated by using Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.
3. Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values when not rated by NFRC 200.
2. Visible Transmittance (VT) shall be calculated by using Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.
3. Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|56 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
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
SECTION 110.7—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS TO LIMIT AIR LEAKAGE
All joints, penetrations and other openings in the building envelope that are potential sources of air leakage shall be caulked, gasketed, weather-stripped or otherwise sealed to limit infiltration and exfiltration.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
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:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
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.
- 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.
CRSC § 205.1.2 High relevance — show source text
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:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
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.
A6.205.3.3 Flame spread rating. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flame spread rating and smoke density requirements of the Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.
A6.205.3.4 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 A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 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 A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 below.
A6.205.3.4.1 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 be at least R-38 in climate zones 1 and 16; and R-30 in all other climate zones.
Exception: 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 1203.2 of Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.
CRSC § 205.1.1.4 High relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]
A6.205.1.1.4 Labeling. Fenestration products shall:
- 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
- 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:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
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.
CRSC § 2602.1 High 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:
- 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:
- 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:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 99
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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:
- 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:
- Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).
RELEASE OF INFORMATION
California Referenced Standards Code High relevance — show source text
I. Use removable posts when:
a) Posts are installed less than 8 feet in front of the equipment’s doors, or
b) Where fixed posts would obstruct access for installation or replacement of equipment.
J. Preferred barrier post arrangements for specific equipment are provided in Figure 11 on Page 12 to Figure 23 on Page 24. These may be modified as needed, to meet specific layouts, but must conform to the requirements in Figure 10 on Page 11.
K. Barrier post details are shown in Figure 24 on Page 25 to Figure 30 on Page 27.
051122 Page 10 of 28 Rev. #22: 03−25−22
UG-1: General Greenbook
Clearances and Location Requirements for Enclosures, Pads, and Underground Equipment
12. Barrier Posts (continued)
A = Distance Between Posts in Inches B = Shortest Distance Between the Protected Device and the Line Between Barrier Posts
Figure 10 Generic Barrier Post Placement
Requirements
- “A” must be less than or equal to 42 inches.
- “B” must be greater than or equal to 12 inches on non-operable sides.
- “B” must be greater than or equal to 36 inches on operable sides.
- B n must be greater than or equal to (A n /2)+3.
Table 3 Common A and B Pairs
“A”
(inches)“B”
(inches)18 12 24 15 30 18 42 24 42 36 Rev. #22: 03−25−22 051122 Page 11 of 28
UG-1: General Greenbook Clearances and Location Requirements for Enclosures, Pads, and Underground Equipment
13. Preferred Barrier Post Arrangement for Transformers
Figure 11 Style DF-LB Box Pad 36” x 52” (Document 064309)
F = Fixed R = Removable
051122 Page 12 of 28 Rev. #22: 03−25−22
UG-1: General Greenbook
Clearances and Location Requirements for Enclosures, Pads, and Underground Equipment
13. Preferred Barrier Post Arrangement for Transformers (continued)
F = Fixed R = Removable
Col1 Col2 50”
52” Figure 12 Style DF-LB Box Pad 50” x 52” (Document 064309)
Rev. #22: 03−25−22 051122 Page 13 of 28
UG-1: General Greenbook Clearances and Location Requirements for Enclosures, Pads, and Underground Equipment
13. Preferred Barrier Post Arrangement for Transformers (continued)
6 1” 80” CRSC § 55143-55148. High relevance — show source text
STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL
- Exemption. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a manufacturer of the primary components of urea formaldehyde foam insulation may apply for certification as provided in Section 1555 of this article. Such certification statement shall indicate compliance with the following standards: A. Composition. The material shall consist of cellular plastic generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent. The material shall be suitable for filling closed cavities through small holes and suitable also for filling open cavities by trowelling during foaming prior to enclosure. B. Thermal performance. The effective thermal performance, incorporating a derating value, shall be determined according to the method described in 42 Fed. Reg. pages 55143-55148. C. Resistance to combustion. Surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:
Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 Test specimens shall be aged for 45 days at 70°F ± 5°F and 35 to 40 percent relative humidity before testing. D. Free formaldehyde content of dry foam. The free formaldehyde content of the dry foam shall be less than 0.01 percent formaldehyde by weight when tested as specified in paragraph (f) (8), published in 45 Fed. Reg. page 63801, except that the specimens to be tested shall also be aged for 56 days at 24 ± 5°C (75 ± 10°F) and 50 ± 10 percent relative humidity in an uncovered beaker. E. Corrosiveness. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for corrosiveness as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. F. Density. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for density as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810.
G. Shrinkage. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for shrinkage as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810, except that the material shall not shrink more than 2.0 percent in any direction. H. Volume resistivity. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for volume resistivity as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. I. Identification. Resin and foaming agent containers shall be marked with conditions of proper storage and the derated R -value and shrinkage of the prepared foam as certified by the manufacturer. J. Safety information. Installers of urea formaldehyde foam insulation shall present the following safety notice to the purchasers of the foam prior to the signing of the contract for installation. The notice shall be printed in a minimum of 8-point type size. One copy of the notice signed by the purchaser shall be immediately given to the purchaser, one copy shall be retained by the installer and one copy shall be mailed by the installer to the Executive Director of the Energy Commission within 48 hours after installation of the insulation is completed.
Frequently asked questions
Who signs the certificate?
The installing contractor signs the certificate under penalty of perjury when the installation is complete; this is the posting requirement in § 12-13-1564(a).
Must the certificate state numeric installed density for loose‑fill?
Yes — for loose‑fill insulation the certificate must state the minimum contractor installed weight per square foot and that it conforms to the manufacturer’s installed design density at the labeled R‑value. The CRSC requires the statement but does not provide the numeric density itself — that comes from the manufacturer. § 12-13-1564(a).
Is this the same as the manufacturer’s certification?
No. Manufacturer certification (that the product meets CRSC standards) is a separate requirement under § 12-13-1555. The installer’s posting obligation is an on‑site, job‑completion certificate required by § 12-13-1564.
Where must I post the certificate?
The statute requires posting in a conspicuous location on completion of the installation; the CRSC does not narrowly define “conspicuous” so practical placement is typically where the homeowner or inspector will readily see it (e.g., attic access, equipment room). § 12-13-1564(a).
Do water‑heater insulation kits require the installer posting the same certificate?
The section includes a separate clause on water‑heater insulation kits (sale/label and R‑value minimum of R‑6) but that clause addresses sale/labeling and instructions; installer posting obligations under § 12-13-1564(a) apply to installed insulation in the applications referenced to Part 6, §118. § 12-13-1564(b).
More in California Referenced Standards Code
- Administration and scope — CRSC Chapter 12 overview
- Air filter standards (Chapter 12‑71)
- Building and facility access / accessibility standards (Chapters 12‑11A, 12‑11B)
- Engineering regulations — quality and design of construction materials (12‑16 series)
- Exits and means of egress (Chapters 12‑10 series)
- Protective signaling systems and detectors (Chapters 12‑72‑1, ‑2, ‑3)
- Radiation shielding standards (Chapter 12‑31C)
- Referenced standards index / cross‑reference table (Part 12 listing of referenced standards)
- Releasing systems for security bars (egress-release standards)
- Standards for insulating materials (Chapter 12‑13)
Ask about the CRSC
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Referenced Standards Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial