Title 24, Permits and HERS Testing for HVAC Work in LA County
What the California energy code requires when you replace a system, and why a permit protects you.
By Piggies Air Conditioning HVAC Team · Updated · 6 min read · Codes & Ratings
The short answer
Replacing a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump in California almost always requires a building permit, and the installation must meet Title 24, the state energy code. In many cases an independent HERS rater verifies items like duct leakage and refrigerant charge before the permit closes. A contractor who skips the permit skips the inspection that protects you.
The three pieces: permit, Title 24, HERS
A permit is issued by your city or, in unincorporated areas, by Los Angeles County. It triggers an inspection by the building department. Title 24 Part 6 is the energy code the installation must satisfy. HERS (Home Energy Rating System) verification is a field test performed by an independent, certified rater that proves specific Title 24 measures were done correctly.
Which HERS tests apply depends on the climate zone and on what was changed. Replacing ducts, adding a significant amount of duct, or installing a new split system commonly brings duct leakage testing and refrigerant charge verification into play. Your installer should tell you up front which tests the job needs.
Why the permit is in your interest
The inspection checks gas connections, venting, electrical disconnects, condensate drains and clearances. Those are the items that cause fires, carbon monoxide problems and water damage when they are wrong.
- Unpermitted work can surface during a home sale and may need to be redone or inspected after the fact.
- Some manufacturer warranties and most rebate programs require a permitted, HERS-verified installation.
- Insurance claims after a fire or leak go more smoothly when the work was permitted.
What a permitted job looks like on the calendar
The contractor pulls the permit before starting. Equipment is installed and the HERS rater tests the system, usually on install day or shortly after. The building inspector then visits, and the permit is finalized. Expect the HERS results and the finalized permit to be given to you; keep both with the equipment paperwork.
Requirements vary by city and change with each code cycle. Confirm specifics with your local building department, and ask your installer which climate zone your address falls in.
Questions to ask any bidder
- Will you pull the permit under your license, and is it included in the price?
- Which HERS tests does this job require, and who is the rater?
- Will I receive the HERS certificate and the finalized permit?
What to remember
- 1 Permit, Title 24 compliance and HERS verification are three separate things and a proper job has all three.
- 2 The inspection is about safety items you cannot see once the panels go on.
- 3 Keep the HERS certificate and permit with your equipment records.
This guide is general information for homeowners in Baldwin Park and surrounding communities. Codes, rates and incentive programs change; confirm current terms with the agency or program before relying on a date or amount. For your specific system, book a visit or call us.
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