What Buildings Require Title 24 Reports?

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When planning a new construction, remodel, or addition in California, it’s essential to know whether your building project requires a Title 24 report. So the big question is: What buildings require Title 24 reports?

The short answer? Nearly all residential and non-residential structures must comply with Title 24 energy efficiency standards. These reports ensure that building designs meet California’s strict energy code—helping reduce energy consumption, save money, and support sustainability goals statewide.

In this article, we’ll walk through which types of buildings need a Title 24 report, what triggers this requirement, and how Alternative Energy Systems (AES) can help you get fast, accurate documentation that keeps your project moving forward.

Understanding the Scope of Title 24

Title 24 is part of the California Code of Regulations that mandates minimum energy efficiency standards for new construction and major alterations. These requirements apply to both residential and commercial buildings. The law ensures that California continues to lead the nation in clean energy policy and building performance.

Local jurisdictions will not issue a building permit unless your project has a valid Title 24 energy compliance report on file.

What Buildings Require a Title 24 Report?

Below is a breakdown of the types of buildings and projects that require Title 24 compliance documentation:

New Residential Construction – Single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, apartments, and condominiums.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) – Detached or attached secondary housing units on a residential lot.
Residential Additions and Alterations – Projects that affect lighting, windows, HVAC, insulation, or building envelope.
New Commercial Construction – Offices, retail stores, warehouses, restaurants, and mixed-use facilities.
Commercial Remodels or Tenant Improvements – Projects that involve lighting systems, HVAC, building envelope, or mechanical upgrades.
Multifamily Buildings – Apartment buildings, senior housing, dormitories, and other multi-unit developments.
Educational and Institutional Facilities – Schools, universities, medical offices, and government buildings.

If your building involves construction that changes or installs any of the systems covered under Title 24 (lighting, mechanical, envelope, water heating, solar), then a Title 24 report is required. Stop wondering What Buildings Require Title 24 Reports and simply give us a call today or leave a message to get started.

When Is a Title 24 Report NOT Required?

There are only a few exemptions. Title 24 reports may not be required for:

Minor repairs or maintenance (e.g., paint, carpet, drywall repair)
Replacement of identical components with no performance change
Projects not affecting lighting, insulation, or HVAC systems

When in doubt, it’s always best to confirm with your local building department—or contact AES for a quick assessment.

Let AES Handle Your Title 24 Reports

At Alternative Energy Systems (AES), we specialize in creating permit-ready Title 24 energy compliance reports for all building types. With 30+ years of experience and thousands of satisfied clients across California, we help you:

Stay compliant with state energy laws
Get faster plan check approvals
Avoid delays and costly redesigns
Receive fast, affordable reports in 1–3 business days

Our certified consultants use the latest state-approved software to ensure accurate, code-compliant documentation. We also offer HERS testing, LEED/GreenPoint support, and guidance through final inspections.

Stop Wondering What Buildings Require Title 24 Reports

& Get Started Today

Need a Title 24 report for your upcoming project? Call AES today or visit our website to request a quote. We’ll help you stay compliant and get your permits approved—fast and stress-free.

FAQ – What Buildings Require Title 24 Reports?

What is a Title 24 report?
It’s a document that proves your building meets California’s energy efficiency code requirements.
Do all new homes require a Title 24 report?
Yes. All new residential construction must comply with Title 24 standards.
Are ADUs required to meet Title 24?
Yes. ADUs must have a full Title 24 energy compliance report.
Do commercial buildings need Title 24 reports?
Absolutely. Offices, stores, and warehouses are all subject to Title 24.
What about room additions?
If the addition includes lighting, HVAC, windows, or insulation changes, Title 24 is required.
Do tenant improvements require Title 24?
Yes, if they involve systems like lighting or HVAC.
Do I need a Title 24 report for window replacements?
Yes, if the new windows alter the thermal performance of the building envelope.
Are schools and medical offices required to comply?
Yes. Institutional buildings must follow Title 24 requirements.
What if I’m just repainting or replacing carpet?
No report needed. Title 24 does not apply to cosmetic-only changes.
What’s included in a Title 24 report?
Envelope details, mechanical systems, lighting design, water heating, and more.
How do I know if my project qualifies for exemption?
Contact your local building department or AES to review your scope of work.
Who enforces Title 24 compliance?
Local building departments in coordination with the California Energy Commission.
What happens if I skip the report?
Your permit will be denied or delayed until compliance is proven.
Can AES help with both reports and testing?
Yes. We provide both compliance reports and HERS field verification services.
Do multifamily buildings need separate reports?
It depends. Each dwelling unit or building component may require its own documentation.
Does solar installation affect Title 24?
Yes. New homes must often include minimum solar PV sizing in the report.
Is Title 24 required for remodels?
Yes—if the remodel affects regulated energy systems.
What software is used to generate the reports?
CEC-approved software like CBECC-Res or CBECC-Com is used.
How long does it take to get the report?
With AES, most reports are completed within 1–3 business days.
How do I request a Title 24 report?
Call (626) 365-1518 or visit title24energy.com to start your project today.