When an HVAC system or ductwork is replaced or altered, California Title 24 requires an ECC inspection before the permit can close. Roo's Ratings performs all required verification measures — fast, accurate, and with same-day certificate filing.
Under California Title 24, an ECC inspection is required any time an HVAC system is replaced, ductwork is altered or extended, or a new system is installed in an existing home. The permit cannot close until the required verification measures are on file with the HERS data registry. Roo's Ratings files your certificates the same day as the inspection.
| Project Type | ECC Inspection Required? |
|---|---|
| Full HVAC system replacement (furnace + AC/heat pump) | ✓ Yes |
| AC or heat pump replacement only | ✓ Yes |
| New ductwork installation or extension (>25 ft) | ✓ Yes |
| Air handler / furnace replacement | ✓ Yes |
| Like-for-like equipment swap with no duct changes | Check permit — may be exempt |
Always confirm with the local building department. When in doubt, call us — we can help you determine what's required before you schedule.
Most HVAC replacement and alteration projects in California require some combination of these four ECC verification measures. Exactly which tests apply depends on your permit and compliance documents (CF-1R). Roo's Ratings will confirm what your project requires before we arrive.
Measures how much conditioned air is escaping the duct system to unconditioned spaces like the attic or crawlspace. A blower is attached to the duct system to pressurize it, and leakage is measured in CFM25. Leaky ducts reduce comfort and efficiency — and fail Title 24 compliance. Required whenever ductwork is altered, extended, or replaced.
Required — ductwork alterations & replacementsMeasures the actual electrical consumption of the air handler fan in watts. This is then expressed as a ratio of watts per CFM (W/CFM) and compared against the Title 24 requirement. An oversized or inefficient motor fails the test and must be corrected before the permit can close. Required for all HVAC system replacements.
Required — HVAC replacementsVerifies the AC or heat pump system is charged to the manufacturer's exact specification per CF-2R requirements. An incorrectly charged system can lose up to 20% of its rated efficiency and fails Title 24. Required for all new AC and heat pump installations in California — both replacements and new installs.
Required — all AC & heat pump installsMeasures the actual airflow (CFM) delivered by the system and compares it to the design specification on the CF-1R. Correct airflow is essential for proper heat transfer, refrigerant performance, and occupant comfort. Typically performed in the same visit as refrigerant charge verification.
Required — HVAC replacementsMost HVAC contractors schedule all four measures on the same visit: duct leakage, fan watt draw, refrigerant charge, and airflow. Bundling saves time and reduces cost significantly compared to booking each separately. Call us to confirm what your permit requires and get a bundle quote.
Call for Bundle PricingMost altered system inspections take 1–2 hours depending on the number of measures required and system accessibility. We'll give you a time estimate when you book.
Yes — refrigerant charge, airflow, and fan watt draw all require the system to be fully operational and at steady-state before testing. Make sure the install is complete before scheduling.
We document the failure and the contractor corrects the issue. We then return for a re-inspection. Ask us about re-inspection rates when you book — we keep it straightforward.
Either the contractor or the homeowner can call us directly. We work with both. If you're an HVAC contractor, ask about setting up a trade account for faster booking.
The CF-1R (compliance form) on your permit documents what's required. If you don't have it, call us — we can help you figure it out before we arrive so there are no surprises.
Yes — we serve Sacramento and a 75-mile radius including Roseville, Folsom, Elk Grove, Auburn, Stockton, Yuba City, and many more. See all service areas →
Call or send a message — we'll confirm what your project requires and get you on the schedule fast.
(530) 300-4472