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Washington State Energy Code Implementation in 2011!
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Here are some interesting facts about the new Washington State Energy Code, to be implemented effective January 1, 2011, you may not know about:
Here are some interesting facts about the new Washington State Energy Code, to be implemented effective January 1, 2011, you may not know about:
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(1) Currently, new construction
is built to conform with the prescriptive requirements of the Washington State Energy Code. During
construction, a house is insulated, ventilated, and subsequently visually inspected by the local Building Inspector.
Under the new 2009 WSEC, however, testing will be required to verify the building’s performance
is actually in accordance with WSEC standards. This will involve air leakage testing (blower door
testing) and duct testing for all new single family residential construction after Janaury 1, 2011.
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(2)
Testing must be performed by a certified Building Performance
Analyst or, at a minimum, by individuals who have completed the one (1) day duct testing class provided by WSU
Energy Program. Testing shall occur at any time after rough-in and after installation of penetrations
of the building envelope and the sealing thereof (See Sections 502.4.5 and 503.10.1).
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This really is a huge step in the direction of compelling
building energy efficiency to be in verified (tested) accordance with the Washington State Energy Code.
Another hoop contractors must jump through, to be sure, but in the long run one that helps ensure proper construction
and greatly increased energy efficiency for Washington State.
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There is also a movement underway attempting to compel building
energy performance testing for all real estate transactions, informing potential buyers about the energy efficiency of the
home they’re considering and recommended upgrades thereto. Currently, Michigan and Texas have such
requirements. Nevada State Bill 437 will require an energy evaluation be offered on all homes for sale
beginning January 1, 2011. And, in Boulder, Colorado, an energy rating is required at any remodel or rebuild
as a permit requirement (e.g., the energy rating of the home must be improved). Given the current climate,
this trend will likely continue and be a reality in Washington State soon.
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For more information, see http://sbcc.wa.gov/Page.aspx?nid=14, the 2009 Washington State Energy Code, for specific language and requirements.
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Tim M. Hance, of All Islands Home Inspections, is a Washington State Licensed Home Inspector, WSDA Structural Pest Inspector, and BPI Certified Building Performance Analyst and Energy Auditor.
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All Islands Home Inspections, www.allislandsinspections.com, services all of Skagit, San Juan, Island, and Whatcom Counties.
