Title 24 Compliance Checklist for LA Remodels (2026)
California's Title 24 energy code touches almost every LA remodel bigger than a cosmetic refresh. This is the short list of what actually triggers compliance, what HERS testing costs, and the 2025 revisions you need to know.
What triggers Title 24
Any addition over 700 sqft, any alteration that adds or relocates HVAC, any window replacement over 75 sqft total, any lighting alteration, any gas-to-electric appliance conversion, any new ADU.
Cosmetic work (paint, flooring, in-kind fixture swaps) does NOT trigger Title 24 compliance.
Kitchen range hood CFM (the rule that sinks unpermitted kitchens)
Title 24 2025 sets range hood CFM by kitchen size: >1,500 sqft kitchens electric 110 CFM / gas 180 CFM; 1,000–1,500 sqft electric 110 / gas 250; 750–1,000 sqft electric 130 / gas 280; <750 sqft electric 160 / gas 280.
All range hoods must duct to exterior. Recirculating hoods CANNOT meet code in California — this is the single most common violation we see on LA remodels.
Hood sound rating: max 3 sones on continuous operation.
JA8 lighting (50% rule)
50% of kitchen and bath wattage must be JA8-compliant (CRI ≥ 90, 2000–4000K, separate switching).
JA8 compliance is printed on the fixture packaging — if it's not there, the fixture doesn't count toward the 50% wattage budget.
Bathroom ventilation
Demand ventilation 50 CFM (when fan is on) or continuous 20 CFM (always on). Sound ≤ 1.0 sone. Energy Star rated. 4-inch minimum duct to exterior. Humidistat control between 50–80% RH. Exhaust-only continuous ≤ 40 W.
HERS rater testing (the hidden cost)
HERS (Home Energy Rating System) verification is required for any HVAC change, duct replacement, insulation upgrade, or new-construction above a threshold.
Cost: $350–$800 per test. Typical remodel needs 1–3 tests depending on scope.
Test categories: duct leakage, refrigerant charge, airflow, fan watt draw, window SHGC verification, insulation installation quality.
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Title 24 Compliance Checklist for LA Remodels (2026) — scoped by Baily.
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