What is a rated order in the context of HERS Rater inspections?

In the context of HERS Rater inspections, a rated order refers to the formal engagement for a Rater to evaluate a property. This is a critical aspect of the HERS process because it establishes the official agreement and scope of work between the homeowner or the builder and the Rater. It signifies that the Rater will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the home's energy performance, following the appropriate protocols and methodologies outlined by the HERS standards.

The rated order sets the expectations for what the inspection will entail and ensures that both parties are aligned on the objectives of the evaluation. This formal engagement lays the foundation for an accurate and thorough rating of the home’s energy efficiency, leading to valid results that homeowners and builders can rely on for making informed decisions about energy performance improvements.

By having a structured approach through the rated order, it enhances the integrity of the HERS process and ensures compliance with the specified guidelines, resulting in a reliable energy rating that reflects the actual performance of the home.