Frequently Asked Questions
A HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rating measures home energy efficiency with a score from 0 (net zero) to 100 (standard home). Most new Massachusetts construction targets below 55. Lower scores mean greater efficiency and lower energy bills.
Yes. Most municipalities that have adopted the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code require a certified HERS rating for new residential construction before a certificate of occupancy can be issued. We serve all 351 MA cities and towns.
Preliminary HERS ratings can be completed same-day. Final ratings after blower door and duct testing typically take 1-2 hours on site. We offer same-day preliminary reports with 24/7 support so your project is never delayed.
Costs typically range from $600-$2,500 depending on project size and complexity. Call (617) 501-6788 for a free quote. We offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround statewide.
Blower door testing measures air tightness of your building envelope. The Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code requires new construction to achieve 3.0 ACH50 or better. We test, report, and guide your crew on what needs to be fixed.
Duct leakage testing measures air escaping from your HVAC duct system. The MA Stretch Energy Code requires 4 CFM25 per 100 sq ft or less. Failing this test holds up your certificate of occupancy.
The MA Stretch Energy Code is a more stringent building energy code adopted by over 300 MA municipalities. It requires HERS ratings, blower door testing, duct leakage testing, and minimum efficiency standards for new construction.
REScheck (residential) and COMcheck (commercial) are energy compliance reports required by most MA building departments. We prepare same-day reports that meet 2021 IECC and MA Stretch Energy Code requirements.
Yes - most of our work is with builders and developers. Our owner holds an Unrestricted CSL License with 25+ years of construction experience and has managed 250+ new construction builds. We work around your schedule.
We serve all 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts - Greater Boston, Cape Cod, South Shore, North Shore, MetroWest, Western MA and everywhere in between. Over 15,000 HERS ratings completed statewide.
Yes. As a certified Mass Save partner, a low HERS score helps qualify homeowners for rebates on insulation, heat pumps, air sealing, and smart thermostats. We handle the rating and documentation.
A preliminary rating uses building plans before construction and is used for permit applications. A final rating is completed after construction with actual blower door and duct test results. Both may be required depending on your municipality.
