California rule
The rules that come with it
Thermostat work done as part of a permitted system change falls under the 2025 Energy Code for permits applied for on or after January 1, 2026.
- A system change can bring HERS testing with it, set off by the permit.
- The rater for that test may be one you hire yourself.
Checked November 2026California Energy Commission, 2025 Building Energy Efficiency Standards
Checked November 2026California Energy Commission, Home Energy Rating System Program


