Short answer: Title 24 is required for most California building permits that involve new construction, additions, ADUs, or alterations to the building envelope, HVAC, water heating or lighting. Cosmetic work and like-for-like repairs usually do not need a report. Your local building department makes the final decision for each permit.
A Title 24 energy compliance report is required for most building permits in California that involve changes to the building envelope, HVAC, lighting, or water heating systems. This includes new construction, additions, alterations, and some change-of-use projects.
Projects That Typically Need a Title 24 Report
New construction
New single-family homes and multifamily buildings always need energy documentation. The whole building is modeled, and newly constructed single-family homes generally must include solar PV.
ADUs and JADUs
Detached, attached and junior ADUs, including garage conversions, typically require a report because they create new conditioned living space. See ADU Title 24 reports.
Additions
Room additions and other conditioned-space expansions usually trigger Title 24. The addition can often be modeled alone or together with the existing house. See do I need Title 24 for an addition.
Alterations
Changes to existing buildings can trigger Title 24 even when no space is added:
- HVAC replacements — changing out a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump is covered in many jurisdictions, and duct work can bring in testing requirements. See HVAC replacement Title 24.
- Window replacements — especially when they affect a significant portion of wall area. See do window replacements require Title 24.
- Water heater replacements — the new unit must meet current requirements, and some departments ask for documentation.
- Re-roofs — in some climate zones, roof replacement brings cool-roof or insulation requirements.
- Tenant improvements — multifamily and nonresidential work involving new mechanical or lighting systems.
When Is Title 24 Not Required?
Title 24 is generally not required for work that does not change a building's energy use — cosmetic remodels, like-for-like repairs, and projects that do not add conditioned space or alter the envelope, HVAC, water heating or lighting. Typical examples:
- Pure cosmetic remodels (flooring, paint, cabinets, countertops)
- Roof repairs that do not alter insulation
- Electrical panel upgrades not tied to new construction
- Repairs that replace parts without changing the system
- Unconditioned structures such as many sheds and detached garages that stay unconditioned
Even small jobs can need a form if the city requires one for the equipment involved, so confirm before you assume an exemption.
Who Decides Whether You Need a Report?
Your local building department. The energy code is statewide, but each department reviews scope and decides what documents a permit needs. Some ask for a full report on small alterations; others accept a simpler form. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and project scope — but if you are pulling a permit for anything structural or mechanical, a Title 24 report is very likely required.
Your climate zone also matters: some alteration rules, such as those for roofs, only apply in certain zones. For what the code actually asks of each building component, see Title 24 requirements.
What to Do If Your Project Needs Title 24
Gather your plans — floor plans, elevations, a site plan showing orientation, a window schedule and equipment details — and order the report type that matches your permit. See what documents to upload. Title24Comply delivers permit-ready reports in 2–3 business days, starting at $199 for ADUs, $245 for single-family residential and $345 per building for multifamily. Order online in under five minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Title 24 for a kitchen or bathroom remodel?
Usually not for cosmetic work. If the remodel adds or changes windows, HVAC, water heating or lighting, or moves walls into conditioned space, a report may be needed.
Does replacing an HVAC system require Title 24?
In many jurisdictions, yes. HVAC changeouts often need a permit with energy documentation, and HERS verification may be required for items such as duct leakage and refrigerant charge.
Does a garage conversion require Title 24?
Almost always, because it turns unconditioned space into living space. See do garage conversions require Title 24.
Can the building department require a report even if I think I am exempt?
Yes. The department has the final say, so check early. If they ask for one, we can usually turn it around in 2–3 business days, with rush options available.
