The Building Performance Institute, Inc. (BPI) has obtained a set of non-binding interpretations from the Building Officials Association of Florida (BOAF) allowing individuals certified by BPI to conduct blower door tests for Florida home builders to demonstrate compliance to the Florida building code. Blower door testing in new Florida homes becomes mandatory on July 1, 2017.
While these were separated into three separate requests for BOAF consideration, for this communication they are combined into a single paragraph and highlighted in red below:
Question: Would an individual who possesses a relevant certification by the Building Performance Institute, Inc. (in accordance with FS 553.993 (5) or (7)) meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code, 5th Edition (2014) – Energy Efficiency sections R104.5, R402.4.1.2, and R403.2.2 found in the 2016 Supplement in accordance with FS 553.998 (authorized by 2016 HB535) to submit an inspection report for a home for residential code compliance?
In summary, BOAF’s interpretation in all three cases is “yes” with commentary. Please see the following non-binding interpretations:
• 7911: http://interpretations.boaf.net/view/7911
• 7912: http://interpretations.boaf.net/view/7912
• 7867: http://interpretations.boaf.net/view/7867
“This is an important development for the building industry in Florida” said BPI CEO Larry Zarker. “Home builders need affordable options for testing to prove they meet the requirements of the Florida building code,” he added.
BPI Test Centers are now gearing up to provide training for individuals who will be qualified to perform these code compliance tests.
About BPI
Founded in 1993, the Building Performance Institute (BPI) is the nation’s premier certification and standard-setting organization for home performance professionals. BPI is accredited by the American National Standards Institute, Inc. (ANSI) as a developer of American National Standards and as a certifying body for personnel credentials. BPI develops the technical standards for home energy audits and for energy efficiency, health, and safety improvements. From these standards, BPI develops rigorous written and field exams resulting in one of BPI’s 14 professional certifications. BPI also offers 3 programs (BPI GoldStar Contractor for companies, Rating Program for raters, and BPI Product Listing for manufacturers) and one certificate (Building Science Principles). BPI Certified Professionals hold over 18,400 active certifications supported by 130 BPI Test Centers and 340 Proctors. BPI has over 450 BPI Goldstar Contractors across the country.