Title 24 Permits for HVAC Changes in California

Permits are normal

Replacing a furnace, AC or heat pump usually needs a building permit. A reputable contractor pulls it as part of the job.

Duct testing

Many change-outs require testing the ducts for leaks, and sealing them if they leak too much.

Third-party verification

Some tests must be confirmed by an independent rater, often called HERS verification.

Why it matters

Leaky ducts waste a large share of heating and cooling. The rules push for repairs that help comfort and bills.

Quotes should include it

A quote that leaves out the permit or testing may look cheaper but can lead to problems later, including when you sell.

Keep the paperwork

Store the permit, test results and final inspection with your house records.

Older homes

Older homes may need more duct work to pass. Ask what's likely before the job starts.

Licensed contractors

Only licensed contractors should do this work; see the hiring guide.

More help

See system replacement.

Selling a home

Buyers and inspectors may ask whether past HVAC work was permitted. Records of permits and testing make the sale smoother.

Timeline

Testing and inspection can add a few days after the installation itself. Plan for that when scheduling.

Ask before signing

Ask each contractor how they handle the permit and testing, and whether those costs are in the quote. Comparing quotes is easier when they all include the same work.

Duct sealing pays back

Sealing leaky ducts often makes rooms more even and lowers bills, so the testing step that some homeowners see as red tape usually leaves the house more comfortable.

More heating and cooling guides

• Cool Mornings, Hot Afternoons: Heating and Cooling in Santa Rosa
• Wildfire Smoke and Your Home's Air
• Are Heat Pumps a Good Fit for Sonoma County Homes?
• Heating and Cooling Older Homes Without Ducts
• Rainy Season Furnace Checklist
• Hiring an HVAC Contractor in California