Finishing a residential construction project in California doesn’t stop when the work is done. Before you can close your permit and schedule your final inspection, you’ll need three things:

  • A valid building permit
  • A completed HERS test
  • A finalized Project Status Report (PSR)

Your building department won’t sign off until all three are in place.

What You’ll Need Before Final Inspection

Here’s how it all works and what steps you need to take.

  • A HERS test is required for most permitted residential projects in California. It confirms that energy-related systems like HVAC equipment, ductwork, and insulation were installed to meet state energy code requirements.
  • A certified HERS Rater performs this testing. The rater verifies installations, completes required forms, and uploads documentation to the CHEERS Registry.
  • You cannot pass final inspection or receive a Certificate of Occupancy without a documented HERS test submitted through CHEERS.
  • The Project Status Report (PSR) is a summary of your energy documentation in CHEERS. It confirms that all forms have been completed and signed, including those from your HERS Rater.
  • Your building inspector will use the PSR to verify that the project is complete before issuing final approval.
  • The HERS Rater is responsible for performing the required field verifications and submitting the final documents that allow the PSR to be issued.

You can find a certified rater using the CHEERS Find a Pro directory. Search by zip code and reach out to a few providers to compare quotes and availability.

Creating a CHEERS Account

To access and sign project documents in the CHEERS Registry, you’ll need to create a homeowner account. There are two types, and which one you choose depends on how you’re managing your project:

Option 1: Homeowner Account (Free)
Use this account to sign CF1R design documents. This is the best option if you’re working with a contractor or energy consultant who is handling the rest of the process.

Option 2: Homeowner/Contractor Account ($8/month)
Choose this if you’re acting as your own contractor or managing the construction yourself. It allows you to sign both the CF1R and CF2R installation documents, which are required for permit closure.

What the HERS Rater Needs From You

Before a HERS Rater can schedule testing or complete their forms, they need to know which parts of your project require verification. This information comes from the energy compliance report created during the design phase, typically handled by your energy consultant or designer.

The report outlines specific items that need to be tested or inspected. These may include:

  • Quality insulation installation (QII)
  • Kitchen range hood airflow
  • Minimum airflow requirements
  • Verified EER and SEER/SEER2
  • Verified refrigerant charge
  • Fan efficacy (watts per CFM)
  • Verified HSPF2
  • Verified heat pump rated heating capacity
  • Duct leakage testing

You can request this information from your energy consultant. It is typically included in your Title 24 documentation. Sharing this list with your HERS Rater ahead of time will help them prepare for the visit and avoid delays.

Ready to Close Your Permit?

Here’s how to get started:

Review a sample Project Status Report to understand what your inspector will be looking for.

Once these items are handled, your HERS documentation can be finalized, and your project will be ready for final inspection and permit closure.