What Does a Title 24 Compliance Report Include?

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Whether you’re building a new home or adding an ADU, you’ve likely been told you need a Title 24 compliance report. But what does a Title 24 compliance report include? And why is it such a vital part of the construction process in California?

A Title 24 report is the official documentation used to demonstrate that your project meets California’s strict building energy efficiency standards. It’s not just a formality—it’s required by local building departments before permits are issued. Without it, your project could be delayed, rejected, or forced into costly redesigns.

Let’s break down everything a Title 24 compliance report includes, who prepares it, and how Alternative Energy Systems (AES) makes the process fast and hassle-free.

What Is a Title 24 Compliance Report?

A Title 24 compliance report is a comprehensive document prepared by a certified energy consultant using California Energy Commission-approved software. This report outlines how your building design will meet or exceed the state’s energy efficiency standards.

The report is required for both residential and commercial projects and is reviewed by your city or county’s building department during the plan check process. Only when this report is approved can your permit move forward.

What’s Included in the Report?

A well-prepared Title 24 compliance report includes the following key sections:

Project Information – Includes the address, scope of work, climate zone, and construction type (new build, addition, or alteration).
Building Envelope Details – Shows the insulation values, roof assembly, wall construction, floor systems, window types, U-factor, and SHGC values.
Mechanical Systems – Includes HVAC system type, ducting layout, duct location, refrigerant charge requirements, and airflow specifications.
Lighting Systems – Covers interior and exterior lighting wattage, fixture types, controls, dimmers, and occupancy sensors.
Water Heating – Details water heater efficiency, location, pipe insulation, and recirculation systems.
Solar PV Requirements – For most new residential projects, Title 24 includes minimum solar system sizing to meet energy offset goals.
Compliance Method – Indicates if the project is meeting standards through the Prescriptive or Performance method.
Mandatory Measures Summary – A checklist confirming compliance with California’s baseline energy rules.
Certificate of Compliance (CF1R) – A standardized form that building departments use to verify your project is Title 24 compliant.

The report may also include modeling data, zone load calculations, alternative system justifications, and other forms depending on the complexity of your project.

Who Prepares the Report?

Only certified energy consultants with access to California-approved software like CBECC-Res or CBECC-Com are allowed to generate legal Title 24 compliance reports. These professionals understand how to input your architectural plans into the modeling software, adjust variables, and generate a report that will pass plan check the first time.

At Alternative Energy Systems (AES), we’ve spent over 30 years helping homeowners, builders, and architects get their projects approved—quickly and accurately.

Why It Matters

Without an accurate Title 24 report, you could face:

Permit denials
Costly design revisions
Failed inspections
Delays in construction timelines

Working with AES ensures your Title 24 documentation is complete, correct, and approved on the first submission.

Get Your Title 24 Report from the Experts

Our team will review your plans, generate a fully compliant report, and provide field verification (HERS) services if required. Call or message us today to request your Title 24 energy report and move your project forward with confidence.

FAQ – What Does a Title 24 Compliance Report Include?

What is a Title 24 compliance report?
A document that proves your building design meets California’s energy efficiency code requirements.
Is the report required by law?
Yes. You need it to pull permits for most construction projects in California.
Who prepares the report?
Certified energy consultants using CEC-approved software.
What does the building envelope section include?
Details about insulation, windows, roofing, and wall construction.
What is the HVAC section about?
It covers system type, ducting layout, airflow, and refrigerant charge compliance.
Are lighting systems included?
Yes—interior and exterior lighting fixtures and controls are reviewed.
Do I need solar on my report?
Yes, if you’re building a new residential project—it must meet solar PV requirements.
What’s the difference between Prescriptive and Performance methods?
Prescriptive uses set values; Performance allows design flexibility with energy modeling.
What is the CF1R form?
The Certificate of Compliance submitted with your plans to the city or county.
Is HERS testing part of the report?
No, but it’s often required after the report during construction verification.
Can I submit the report myself?
You can submit it to the city, but only a certified consultant can create it.
Does AES offer fast turnaround?
Yes. Most reports are ready within 1–3 business days.
Can I use the same report for future projects?
No—each report must match the specific project and design.
Are commercial and residential reports different?
Yes. They use different modeling software and have different energy criteria.
Does Title 24 apply to remodels?
Yes, especially if HVAC, windows, or lighting systems are affected.
Is duct leakage included in the report?
It’s included in performance modeling and verified later with HERS testing.
Do I need the report before applying for permits?
Yes. Most jurisdictions require the report with your initial plan submission.
Can AES handle HERS verification?
Yes. We’re certified to perform all necessary field testing.
Will the report include solar sizing?
Yes, for residential new builds, the required solar PV size will be listed.
How do I get started?
Call AES at (626) 365-1518 or visit title24energy.com to request your report.