Relevant Standard

The minimum mandatory requirements for new low-rise residential buildings under AB970, Title 24 (effective June 1, 2001) are located in "Section 118: Mandatory Requirements for Insulation and Cool Roofs" of the 2001 Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (AB 970, Pub. #400-01-024). They include certification and maximum flame spread of insulation.

In addition, new low-rise residential buildings must meet the mandatory features and devices under Section 150 of the 2001 Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (AB 970, Pub. #400-01-024).

There are always two ways to meet the energy requirements of Title 24. They are commonly referred to as the prescriptive compliance method and the performance compliance method. The prescriptive method is outlined in the Residential Manual For Compliance with California's 2001 Energy Efficiency Standards (Pub. #400-01-002, effective date: June 1, 2001). The mandatory measures are listed in Chapter 2. The prescriptive requirements for insulation are listed in Chapter 3, Table 3-1.

The performance method or Alternative Calculation Method (ACM) allows the builder to make trade-offs to meet the energy requirements of Title 24. This flexible method is based on whole house calculations and can be found in Low-Rise Residential Alternative Calculation Method Approval Manual For Compliance with California's 2001 Energy Efficiency Standards (pub #400-01-012). Under this method, contractors may find it cost-effective to increase the R-value of their insulation.

All of the documents are located on the Title 24 Web pages: www.energy.ca.gov/title24/.