Energy-efficient construction has become the standard in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Whether you're designing a new home, pursuing Energy Star certification, or meeting MA Stretch Code or RI’s 2024 IECC requirements, a certified HERS Rating is essential.
Energy Geeks partners with builders, architects, and design teams to streamline code compliance, improve project performance, and ensure homes meet the region’s increasingly rigorous energy standards.
Why Builders & Architects Need a HERS Rating
A HERS Rating supports:
- Code compliance documentation
- Energy modeling for design-phase decisions
- Insulation, HVAC, and envelope optimization
- Efficient sequencing of inspections & testing
- RI and Mass Save program eligibility
- Meeting performance-based compliance pathways
Learn how a HERS Rating is calculated in
What Is a HERS Rating?
MA & RI Code Requirements for Builders
Massachusetts (MA 780 CMR & Stretch Code)
Most municipalities in MA require a HERS Rating for new construction, especially under the Stretch or Specialized Code. Requirements include:
- HERS performance targets
- Mandatory Blower Door Testing
- Mandatory Duct Leakage Testing
- Minimum insulation levels (per table R402.1.2)
- Mechanical ventilation compliance
Learn more at
Code Compliance in MA & RI
Rhode Island (RI 2024 IECC )
RI’s adoption of 2024 IECC requires:
- Verified Blower Door results
- Duct Leakage Testing for systems outside the conditioned space
- Accurate energy modeling when using performance paths
Design-Phase Energy Modeling
Early modeling allows Energy Geeks to:
- Evaluate envelope strategies
- Compare HVAC options
- Optimize glazing and insulation
- Predict HERS outcomes before construction
- Prevent costly redesigns
Our modeling follows RESNET standards and integrates local code requirements unique to New England’s climate.
Field Inspections & Required Testing
We perform:
Blower Door Testing
Learn more:
What Is a Blower Door Test?
Duct Leakage Testing
Required under both MA and RI codes.
More details:
What Is Duct Leakage Testing?
These tests feed into the final HERS model and certification.
Required Documentation for Code Officials
Builders receive:
- Certified HERS Index
- Final Building Summary
- Blower Door & Duct Leakage Test reports
- Stretch Code/IECC documentation packets
- RI or Mass Save program documentation
See the full rating workflow:
The HERS Rating Process
Incentives for Builders
New construction incentive programs often require a HERS Rating. Learn about available rebates
RI and Mass Save RNC and R&A Integration
Ready to Partner With a Certified HERS Rater?
Request a HERS Rating and we’ll help keep your project on track, on time, and code-compliant.
