Somerville has some of the strictest energy requirements in the state, and that isn’t going to loosen anytime soon. The Stretch Code forces new construction to hit performance targets that older builders often underestimate. Even well-built homes can fail these thresholds if ductwork leaks too much or if insulation isn’t installed perfectly.
There are three core reasons projects fail in Somerville:
These issues aren’t always obvious until the testing phase. A blower door test doesn’t care how confident the installer was — it gives a number, and that number determines whether you pass. With a HERS Rater who understands local expectations, you sidestep avoidable failures, keep the project moving, and hit compliance without surprises.
A proper HERS rating involves more than showing up with equipment and handing over a number. It requires a full review of the building envelope, mechanical systems, ductwork, insulation, air sealing, and ventilation. Every part of the home affects the final score, and ignoring small errors early leads to big failures later.
Our service covers every step from plan review to final certification, including the following core components:
Builders who try to rush through this without proper verification end up paying to fix things twice. We catch the issues early, when they’re cheap to correct and before the project reaches the point where undoing anything becomes a nightmare.
A strong rating begins before framing even starts. We examine architectural plans, insulation details, mechanical specifications, and energy-related design elements to identify weaknesses early. A lot of conflict between builders and inspectors happens because assumptions were made too early and never corrected. Plan review prevents that.
During this stage, we:
This is the point where changes are cheap — not after drywall is installed. When builders skip this step, they often regret it.
Once the project is underway, we perform inspections at critical stages. The goal is simple: catch mistakes immediately so the final tests go smoothly. A quick check during rough construction can save days of rework later.
Our inspections include:
If something is wrong, we tell you directly and immediately. No vague hints or sugarcoating. You get clear, actionable direction so the crew can fix it.
This is the stage where every corner that was cut suddenly shows up in the data. We use calibrated equipment and industry-standard procedures to measure real-world performance.
This identifies how much air leaks through the building envelope. If the air leakage number is too high, you fail. There’s no arguing with the results. With early inspections and proper preparation, this test becomes predictable instead of stressful.
Leaky ductwork is one of the biggest reasons homes fail to meet code. We test both rough-in (when ducts are still accessible) and final (after everything is sealed). Testing early allows corrections without ripping anything apart later.
We confirm that fresh-air systems provide the correct airflow rates. Incorrect installation or undersized fans are common errors that fail inspections immediately.
Once everything checks out, we produce the documentation required by Somerville inspectors and Massachusetts energy programs. You get a clear, defensible score backed by accurate data.
We work with clients who value accuracy over convenience and want straightforward communication. Our services support:
If someone is looking for a “soft pass” or shortcuts, we’re not a match. If they want results based on Real performance, we’re the right fit.
Choosing the right HERS Rater matters more than most builders think. A poor rating can block a certificate of occupancy, disqualify a project from incentive programs, or force expensive rework. Here’s what you get with us:
There’s no guessing here. We give you the data, explain the results clearly, and provide the steps needed to hit your targets.
We handle projects throughout Greater Boston and surrounding communities. Our service area includes:
If your project sits near Somerville, we cover it without complications.
If you want an accurate HERS rating, proper guidance through the Massachusetts energy code requirements, and reliable testing that keeps your build moving forward, reach out to Home Energy Efficiency Consultant. The sooner we’re involved, the smoother your project runs. We eliminate guesswork, reduce risk, and give you results you can trust.
At Home Energy Efficiency Consultants, we are committed to providing the highest quality energy consulting services to homebuilders, architects, and developers across Massachusetts.
24/7 Support
Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive updates, tips, and insights about energy-efficient building practices, financial incentives, and the latest energy code requirements in Massachusetts.
68 South St – Framingham MA
© 2025, All Rights Reserved.
Optimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
