New Marlborough, MA Stretch Energy Code Support

New Marlborough has not adopted the Stretch Code. The state lists it on the base energy code, which still sets real requirements but no fixed HERS cap.

In plain terms:

• New homes: the prescriptive path, REScheck or a performance/HERS approach; the Stretch Code HERS 42/45 caps do not apply
• Additions and renovations: REScheck or the prescriptive tables, with no HERS 65/70 target unless the town adopts the Stretch Code
• Commercial: COMcheck for buildings up to 20,000 sq ft

Second homes and rural new construction make up much of the local work. Without a HERS cap, the main energy checks are the REScheck or prescriptive tables, the blower door test and duct sealing.

In New Marlborough, building permits go through a regional building department that the town shares with several other south Berkshire towns. Applications are filed online through the shared Berkshire PermitEyes portal.

Many owners still choose a HERS rating, because it documents air tightness and duct testing and keeps a project ready if the town's code changes before the permit is issued.

Even on the base code, the blower door and duct leakage tests still have to pass at final, so the air sealing details are the same as on a Stretch Code job.

REScheck works well for a straightforward addition, but a design with a lot of glass or an unusual wall assembly can pass more easily on a performance model, so it is worth comparing both before the plans are stamped.

Mechanical ventilation is required in new homes either way, and the ventilation rate has to be verified at final along with the air leakage result, so the fan and controls should be on the plans.

The closest HEEC office to New Marlborough is Marlborough, at 272 Lincoln St C1. We can review plans, run the model and schedule the pre-drywall and final tests around your inspection dates.