On 1/29/10 the new State Law known as The Energy Efficient Building Act 20 ILCS 3125 came into effect. This new law now includes all new residential buildings, additions, alterations, renovations and repairs; previously it only pertained to commercial projects. These projects must now meet all of the code requirements in the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code.

Exterior Energy Inspections are performed prior to any siding or masonry work to verify air sealing with all penetrations sealed.

Interior Energy Inspection are required to verify R-Values, duct work insulation if required, duct sealing, duct tightness test if any ductwork is located outside the conditioned space, and R-Value of insulation for floors over unconditioned spaces.

Final Energy Inspection verifies additional sealing requirements of outlets and recessed lighting, window and door U-Factors, HVAC sizing per Manual J requirements and the posting of a permanent certificate.
 

REScheck and COMcheck

To obtain a permit you may provide us with a REScheck or show compliance using the prescriptive method out of the code book.

The Building Energy Codes Program offers two main compliance assessment software—REScheck for residential compliance assessment, and COMcheck for commercial compliance assessment — in both downloadable and web-based tools. BECP also offers both pre-defined prescriptive packages—which allow you to select from various combinations of energy conservation measures, based on your climate zone location—and a web-based prescriptive package generator which allows you to generate your own code-compliant insulation and window packages based on building location, window-to-wall ratio, and your choice of insulation levels. (Source http://www.energycodes.gov/software.stm)

Link to REScheck

The State of Illinois has adopted the, 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. All new construction, additions, alterations, renovations, and repairs of commercial structures are now required to comply with Chapter 5 of this code. Compliance may be achieved through approved specific computer software (ComChek or ASHRAE 90.1), worksheets, compliance manuals, and other similar materials that meet the intent of the code. All drawings, specifications and other instruments of service filed with an application for a building permit shall bear the seal of a licensed architect of the state.

 Link to COMcheck

Why are there Building Energy Codes?

The Department of Energy provides a very detailed explanation on the importance of Energy Codes in the United States.  From their website:  Buildings use 39% of our total energy, two-thirds of our electricity, and one-eighth of our water. Of our total energy usage, transportation uses only 34% and industry uses only 27%..  In light of these fundamental environmental issues, and the increasing cost of energy and our current economic challenges, building energy efficiency is a key component of sound public policy.

For more information, please visit their site by clicking here.