Yes. Preliminary plans are accepted. You do not need final, stamped construction documents to place a Title 24 order with Title24Comply. Many of our clients submit early-stage architectural drawings, hand-drawn sketches, or CAD plans that are still being revised.
What we need to get started
- Overall floor plan dimensions and layout
- General wall, roof, and floor construction type or notes
- Window sizes and approximate locations
- Intended HVAC system type
If any of these details are not yet finalized, include notes in your order and we will work with what you have. We may follow up with clarifying questions before starting to ensure accuracy. The complete list of helpful documents is on what documents to upload.
Why Start the Energy Model Early?
Most homes and ADUs comply using the performance method, where the design is modeled and compared with a code-defined standard design for the same building in the same climate zone. Running that model while the design is still flexible shows which choices help or hurt — for example, how much west-facing glass the design can carry, or whether a heat pump makes compliance easier. Making those decisions on paper is cheaper than changing them during plan check. Title 24 calculations explains the modeling, and what affects my Title 24 report covers the inputs that matter most.
What Should Be Final Before You Apply for a Permit
The report you submit with your permit application has to match the plan set the building department reviews. Before submittal, confirm that these items agree between the plans and the report:
- Conditioned floor area and the number of units
- Window schedule — sizes, types and locations
- Wall, roof and floor assemblies and insulation
- Heating, cooling and water heating equipment
The code items behind these inputs are summarized in Title 24 requirements.
What if plans change after my report is complete?
Each order includes two free revisions for minor changes. If your plans change significantly — such as adding square footage, changing the HVAC system type, or altering the building footprint — we can issue a revised report. Contact us at service@title24comply.com with your order ID and a description of the changes. See what happens if plans change for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the price change if the final plans are larger?
The final price follows the square footage and unit count on the plans. If an adjustment is needed, we contact you before proceeding. See Title 24 report cost.
Can I use preliminary plans for an ADU or new home?
Yes. Early modeling is especially useful for ADUs and new construction, where window area and system choices have the biggest effect.
Is a report from preliminary plans permit-ready?
It is permit-ready for the design it models. If the design changes before submittal, update the report so the two match.