Energy Efficiency and Weatherization Standards and Rating Systems

The terms “codes” and “standards” are often used interchangeably; however, there is a distinct difference. Codes generally refer to the building regulations and laws adopted by a jurisdiction; in other words, what must be done, such as homes must have indoor plumbing with a working toilet (see separate section on codes) [anchor to codes]. Standards provide guidance and set the bar for how codes should be implemented; for example, toilet flush rates should be no more than 1.6 gallons per flush. Frequently, standards inform or serve as the future generation of building code regulations. Rating systems are most often just that: a way to rate or determine how well a building performs based on myriad of criteria. Evidenced-based standards for healthy housing, such as the National Healthy Housing Standard, can help guide codes, repairs, home assessments, and more.

National Healthy Housing Standard
Science-based minimum performance standards for safe and healthy homes. Features healthy home standards in seven key categories with explanations for each provision about its public health rationale. Integrates public health information into housing code parlance. Tool for property owners, elected officials, code staff, and anyone concerned about housing’s interaction with health. [url]

HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
Identifies the basic standards units must meet before assistance is paid on behalf of a family using Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), also known as Section 8 Vouchers. Establishes the minimum criteria for the health and safety of program participants. Regulations cover housing quality for both single and multifamily housing as well as specific requirements for housing types such as manufactured homes, congregate housing, single room occupancy, shared housing, and group residences. HUD is developing a new inspection standard for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program; see information on UPCS-V below. [url; HUD]

HUD Healthy Home Rating System (HHRS)
Method of evaluating risks from conditions within the home. Rates hazards according to their potential to harm residents. Addresses the housing structure and associated outbuildings; garden, yard, and/or other amenity space(s); and means of access. Hazards are rated according to level of seriousness and potential impact on occupant(s). Provides comparison of risks associated with various hazards. [url; HUD]

Enterprise Green Communities (EGC)
Enterprise Community Partners is a national intermediary supporting preservation and development of affordable housing. Provides an overview of the technical requirements found in the Enterprise Green Communities (EGC) Criteria, which is specifically geared toward affordable housing development and rehabilitation with an emphasis on health. [url, pdf; Enterprise Community Partners]

EPA Indoor Air Plus
Voluntary labeling program designed to improve indoor air quality. Builds on the foundation of EPA and DOE’s Energy Star new homes requirements, specifying construction practices and products to minimize exposure to airborne pollutants and contaminants. Specifications address for moisture control; heating, ventilating and air-conditioning, and combustion-venting systems, as well as radon-resistant construction and low-VOC-emitting building materials. [url; EPA]

U.S. Green Building Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Details information on U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Homes V4, including specific healthy home requirements such as indoor air quality provisions. Also offers guidance to jurisdictions about how to build better codes and provides a large Green Building Codes Resource Center with information about where and how green codes are adopted. [url; USGBC]

Additional Resources

Building Healthy Places Initiative
The Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) Building Healthy Places Initiative helps make the link between human health and development. The site provides evidence-supported opportunities to enhance health outcomes in real estate developments.

Please see the 1,000 Communities Campaign Facilitation Guide: A Roadmap to Healthier Homes
for guidance determining standards and criteria for a local pilot 1000 Communities campaign.