Title 24 is a key part of California’s building code that ensures energy efficiency for new constructions, additions, and major renovations. Before any building permit can be issued for residential or non-residential projects, a Title 24 energy report must be submitted. At 5 Star Energy, we help builders, homeowners, and designers navigate this complex requirement — but what happens after your Title 24 report is submitted?

Let’s walk through the steps that come next.

Step 1: The Building Department Reviews the Report

Once your Title 24 energy report is submitted, it goes straight to your local city or county building department. Their staff will:

• Review your compliance documentation (also known as CF-1R for residential or NRCC for non-residential projects)
• Ensure all values and calculations meet California’s strict energy standards
• Cross-check building plans against the report

At 5 Star Energy, we make sure your report is clear and complete to speed up this process.

Step 2: Permit Approval (or Corrections)

If your report is accurate and compliant:

• The building department issues a permit for construction or remodeling.
• You’re officially allowed to begin work on the project.

If there are issues:

• The permit may be delayed until corrections are submitted.
• You’ll be asked to revise any inconsistent energy features (like insulation R-values, window performance, HVAC sizing, etc.)

5 Star Energy works closely with clients to fix any flagged items fast, so your project stays on track.

Step 3: Construction Begins

With the permit in hand, construction can begin. The project must now follow all energy-related specs listed in the approved Title 24 report. These may include:

• Insulation type and placement
• High-performance windows and doors
• Approved HVAC equipment
• Efficient lighting and duct design

Any deviation from the approved specs can lead to failed inspections or delays, so it’s important to build according to plan.

Step 4: HERS Testing (if required)

If your project involves HVAC systems, ducts, insulation, or other systems affecting energy performance, a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Rater may be required. HERS testing verifies that:

• Ducts are properly sealed
• HVAC systems are sized and performing as expected
• Insulation is installed correctly
• Air leakage is within code limits

At 5 Star Energy, we coordinate with certified HERS raters who handle this step and file all results on time.

Step 5: Verification and CF-2R / CF-3R Forms

After HERS testing (if needed), additional verification forms are submitted:

• CF-2R forms confirm the installation of energy features by contractors.
• CF-3R forms are provided by the HERS rater to verify testing results.

These forms are submitted electronically to the California Energy Commission (CEC) registry. This step ensures your project is not only designed for energy efficiency but actually built that way.

Step 6: Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy

With construction complete and all testing and documentation finalized:

• The building department conducts a final inspection.
• Inspectors check your energy systems, HERS documentation, and overall compliance.

If everything passes:

• You receive a Certificate of Occupancy.
• The project is officially finished and legally habitable.

If anything is missing or incorrect, a correction notice is issued — but working with a company like 5 Star Energy reduces that risk significantly.

Why Work with 5 Star Energy?

Our clients throughout California rely on us for one big reason — we make Title 24 compliance fast, accurate, and stress-free. Here’s what we offer:

• Accurate reports with guaranteed compliance
• Fast turnaround (often within 1–2 days)
• Coordination with HERS raters and building departments
• Help with corrections and resubmissions
• Friendly service and expert guidance every step of the way

Whether you’re a builder managing multiple permits or a homeowner doing your first remodel, we’re here to support you through the entire process.

Get Expert Help from Start to Finish

Title 24 can feel like just another box to check off — until it slows your project down. At 5 Star Energy, we’ve helped thousands of clients across California keep their energy documentation smooth and simple.

Have questions or need help submitting a report? Call us today at (530) 275-3350. Let’s make sure your project moves forward without delay.