In what situation might a HERS rating be a requirement?

A HERS rating might be a requirement specifically in certain states or municipalities for new construction or major renovations because many local governments and states have adopted building codes or energy efficiency programs that mandate compliance with specific energy performance standards. This requirement ensures that new buildings or significant remodels meet certain energy efficiency thresholds, thereby promoting sustainable practices and reducing overall energy consumption.

These regulations are often part of broader efforts to enhance community resilience against climate change, reduce energy costs for homeowners, and incentivize the use of energy-efficient technologies and practices. When a home is being built or majorly renovated, this provides an opportunity to implement energy-efficient measures from the outset, which can be quantified and verified through a HERS rating.

The other scenarios presented do not align with the common requirements for HERS ratings. For example, a home's age does not inherently dictate the necessity of a HERS rating, nor do the presence of specific features like a pool. Additionally, while energy-efficient upgrades may be encouraged, they typically do not trigger a mandatory HERS rating unless part of a larger compliance strategy mandated by local or state regulations.