Massachusetts and Rhode Island continually update their residential energy codes to improve efficiency, comfort, and building performance. This page summarizes major code requirements and recent updates relevant to HERS Ratings, blower door testing, and duct leakage testing.
Massachusetts (MA 780 CMR + Stretch Code)
Key Requirements:
- Blower door testing for all new homes
- Duct leakage testing when ducts are outside conditioned space
- Mechanical ventilation requirements
- Performance paths requiring a HERS Rating
- Stretch Code communities requiring stricter HERS thresholds
Learn more:
Code Compliance in MA & RI
Rhode Island (IECC 2021)
Requirements:
- Statewide blower door testing
- Duct leakage testing for exterior ducts
- Performance path using HERS modeling
- Verified insulation installation
Learn more:
HERS Rating Process
Comparing MA & RI
| Requirement | Massachusetts | Rhode Island |
| Blower Door | Required | Required |
| Duct Testing | Required if ducts outside envelope | Required |
| HERS Rating | Many towns require | Required for some performance paths |
