CF1R vs CF2R vs CF3R: Simple Explanation for Homeowners (And Which One You Actually Need First)

What Is Title 24?

Title 24 is California's energy code. It ensures homes are built to be energy-efficient by regulating things like:

• Insulation
• Windows
• HVAC systems
• Water heaters (including heat pumps)
• Lighting
• Solar (in many cases)

To prove your project follows these rules, the city requires energy compliance documentation. That's where CF1R, CF2R, and CF3R come in.

The Simple Version

Think of these three forms like steps:

What Is CF1R? (The One You Need for Your Permit)

CF1R = Certificate of Compliance

This is the Title 24 Energy Report created from your plans before you submit for permit. It proves to the city that your design meets California energy code.

What's included in a CF1R?

• Climate zone analysis
• Insulation values (walls, roof, floors)
• Window performance (U-factor, SHGC)
• HVAC system efficiency
• Water heater type (e.g., heat pump, gas)
• Lighting efficiency
• Solar assumptions (if required)

This is generated using approved software like EnergyPro or CBECC.

When do you need a CF1R?

• New construction homes
• ADUs
• Additions
• Many alterations (HVAC, windows, water heaters, etc.)

What Is CF2R? (Installation Forms)

CF2R = Certificate of Installation

These are filled out by contractors during construction to confirm they installed:

• The HVAC system
• The water heater
• Insulation
• Duct sealing
• Lighting controls

👉 CF2R proves the right equipment was installed, but it comes after your permit is issued.

What Is CF3R? (Testing & Verification)

CF3R = Certificate of Verification

This is completed by a HERS rater or certified verifier who:

• Tests duct leakage
• Checks airflow
• Verifies system performance
• Confirms the installation meets code

👉 CF3R proves the system actually works and passes testing.

CF1R vs CF2R vs CF3R (Quick Comparison)

Which One Do You Need First?

✅ CF1R — 100% of the time. You cannot get a building permit without an approved CF1R (Title 24 Energy Report). CF2R and CF3R come later, during and after construction.

So if you're:

• Planning an ADU
• Doing an addition
• Building a new home
• Replacing HVAC or water heaters

👉 Your first step is getting a correct CF1R.

Common Reasons CF1R Gets Rejected by the City

This is where experience matters:

• CF1R doesn't match the plans
• Wrong climate zone used
• Wrong window or HVAC specs
• Mismatch between drawings and energy model
• Missing signatures or registration
• City-specific requirements not followed

How We Coordinate CF1R Within Our Permit Sets

From our experience preparing CF1Rs for our own ADU, addition and remodel projects:

• Plans and energy model stay in sync
• City-specific experience (Bay Area & California)
• Fewer plan check comments
• Faster permit approvals
• In-house energy compliance coordinated with the complete permit set

We don't just generate a file — we help make sure your permit actually gets approved.

FAQ: CF1R and Title 24

Final Takeaway

• CF1R = The only form you need to get your permit
• CF2R = Contractor installation paperwork (later)
• CF3R = Testing & verification (later)

If you're planning an ADU, addition or remodel, zHeight coordinates the drawings and in-house CF1R as one permit set. We do not offer standalone Title 24 reports.