Planning a remodel in Highland Park and hearing about energy testing, forms, and code paths? You are not alone. The town’s energy rules can feel technical, especially if you have not pulled a permit in a few years. This guide shows you what applies in Highland Park, which projects trigger the rules, how to pick a compliance path, and when to schedule required tests so you avoid delays. Let’s dive in.
What energy code applies in Highland Park
Highland Park has adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code, and the town requires energy compliance paperwork at permit submission and third-party energy testing before final sign off. You will find the required forms and permit workflow on the town’s Community Development page under Forms and Applications. Refer to the town’s page for current rules and required submittals at Highland Park Forms and Applications.
The region uses North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) templates for energy compliance and testing certificates. Highland Park follows that approach, so expect to submit an Energy Compliance Path Form with your permit and provide a signed Energy Testing Compliance Certificate before final inspection. Because regional codes evolve, it is smart to check NCTCOG’s recommended amendments and watch for local updates at the NCTCOG regional amendments page.
Which remodels trigger energy rules
Additions and new conditioned space usually must meet the energy code for new construction. Alterations that replace or expose major components like windows, insulation, roofing, HVAC systems, ducts, or water heaters generally must bring those components up to current code unless an exception applies. The IECC’s alterations language explains when changed components must meet current standards, with a few specific exceptions for minor repairs. You can read a summary of how the IECC treats alterations in this overview of additions and alterations requirements.
A small interior refresh that does not change thermal boundaries or mechanical systems typically does not trigger energy testing. If you are adding space, replacing windows, opening walls, or touching HVAC or ducts, plan for energy compliance.
Choose your compliance path
NCTCOG’s form lists four ways to show you comply with the IECC. Your team will declare one path at permit application.
Prescriptive path
You follow the code’s tables for insulation, window performance, ductwork, lighting, and other mandatory measures with no tradeoffs. This path is straightforward to document but less flexible when design features are hard to insulate or you want larger expanses of glass. See the path options on the NCTCOG Residential Permit Compliance Path template.
Simulated performance path
An energy model compares your proposed design to a baseline home and allows tradeoffs between envelope, windows, and equipment. This is useful when you want design flexibility. It requires approved software and documentation from a qualified energy modeler. Learn more about IECC compliance options in this overview from the International Code Council.
Energy Rating Index (ERI/HERS) path
A certified HERS rater models and tests the home, then delivers a target ERI score showing compliance. This route offers flexibility but requires a RESNET-accredited rater and their reports. It is listed as an option on the NCTCOG permit compliance template.
Recognized program options
Some jurisdictions accept qualified programs, such as ENERGY STAR, as a compliance alternative when adopted locally. Check Highland Park’s current adoption details and NCTCOG guidance before assuming a program path will be accepted.
Tests and documents you should expect
Highland Park requires third-party verification for residential projects that affect the building envelope or distribution systems. Results are recorded on the NCTCOG Residential Energy Testing Compliance Certificate.
Blower-door test
A blower-door test measures air leakage of the building envelope and must be performed to recognized standards. In our region, the prescriptive path limits air leakage to a defined threshold measured in ACH50, and other paths may use different thresholds. Your rater will document the number on the NCTCOG testing certificate.
Duct leakage testing
Duct systems must be tested for leakage at rough-in or post-construction, and results are recorded on the same certificate. Plan duct layout and sealing early so you hit the target when tested.
Ventilation airflow verification
Whole-house ventilation and local exhaust airflows must be measured. Your tester will record measured CFM values on the certificate to show compliance with the code.
Ratings and certificates
Windows and doors must carry manufacturer ratings for U-factor and SHGC. Insulation R-values and installation locations are verified, and a permanent certificate listing installed values is typically posted at a designated location. The NCTCOG permit compliance template outlines what must be documented.
Third-party requirement and costs
Highland Park expects a certified third party to perform these tests and sign the forms. Typical fees for blower-door and duct testing range from a few hundred dollars to near a thousand depending on size and number of tests. Ask your rater about any rough-in tests needed to avoid costly fixes later. The testing certificate format is here: NCTCOG residential testing template.
Typical requirements in our climate
Highland Park is in IECC Climate Zone 3A. The 2021 code’s prescriptive tables for this zone call for specific minimum insulation levels, window performance, duct sealing, high-efficacy lighting, and verified air sealing. Exact values can change with local amendments, so treat the tables as the authority and verify current numbers with the town’s forms and your design team. For a plain-English overview of your options by path, review the ICC’s guide to residential compliance options.
A simple Highland Park remodel timeline
- Design and scope
- Confirm if your project adds conditioned space or alters the envelope, windows, HVAC, ducts, or water heating.
- With your architect or contractor, pick your compliance path and integrate requirements into the plans. Use the NCTCOG permit compliance template to plan.
- Permit application
- Submit the Energy Compliance Path Form with your building permit package via the town’s process at Highland Park Forms and Applications.
- Construction
- Install insulation, air barriers, windows, and mechanical systems to match your declared path and product ratings.
- Schedule your third-party rater early. Some projects benefit from rough-in testing of ducts before finishes go in.
- Final inspection
- Provide the signed Residential Energy Testing Compliance Certificate with blower-door, duct leakage, and ventilation results. Use the NCTCOG testing certificate.
Budget and incentives
Testing and modeling fees
Budget for third-party testing and, if you choose a performance or ERI path, energy modeling. Fees vary with size and complexity, but planning for several hundred to a few thousand dollars helps you avoid surprises.
Utility rebates
Oncor, the local electric delivery utility, has offered programs that support energy-efficiency upgrades through participating contractors. Availability and rules change, so check current offerings and timelines. A good place to monitor local efficiency activity is the ACEEE Dallas summary, and you can confirm specifics with participating contractors.
Federal tax credits
The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit has provided a 30 percent federal tax credit for many qualifying upgrades, subject to annual limits and product requirements. Always verify the latest IRS guidance and consult a tax professional before you buy or claim credits. Read current notices on the IRS guidance page.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Treating energy compliance as optional. Highland Park requires forms at permit and third-party testing at final.
- Picking a compliance path late. Choose early so your plans, specs, and budget align.
- Skipping rough-in testing. If ducts will be concealed, a rough-in test can save time and rework.
- Losing documentation. Keep window ratings, insulation receipts, and rater reports organized for final.
- Ignoring potential updates. Check the town’s page and NCTCOG amendments before you submit.
Ready to plan your remodel?
When your remodel supports your bigger real estate goals, clear planning pays off. If you are weighing pre-list updates or a post-purchase renovation in Highland Park, we can help you focus on improvements that add value and fit timelines. Reach out to the Cardoza Group, Inc for friendly, local guidance backed by a concierge-level real estate experience.
FAQs
Do Highland Park kitchen remodels trigger energy code testing?
- Purely cosmetic work that does not alter walls, windows, HVAC, or ducts typically does not trigger energy testing. If you open cavities, replace windows or doors, or add conditioned space, expect energy requirements to apply.
What paperwork do I submit for energy compliance in Highland Park?
- Submit the Energy Compliance Path Form with your permit and provide the Residential Energy Testing Compliance Certificate before final inspection. See the town’s process at the Highland Park Forms and Applications page.
Who performs blower-door and duct tests for a Highland Park remodel?
- A certified third-party rater or approved agency must perform tests to recognized standards and sign the NCTCOG testing certificate. See the NCTCOG residential testing template.
Can I use performance tradeoffs to keep larger windows in Highland Park?
- Yes, the simulated performance and ERI paths allow tradeoffs, but they require energy modeling or a HERS rater and the supporting reports. Review options on the NCTCOG permit compliance template.
What climate zone is Highland Park in and why does it matter?
- Highland Park is in IECC Climate Zone 3A, which drives prescriptive targets for insulation, window performance, air sealing, and ductwork. Your design team will use the zone’s requirements for the path you choose, and your rater will verify them at testing.
