Multifamily buildings in California document Energy Code compliance on multifamily certificates of compliance. Low-rise multifamily projects use LMCC (Low-rise Multifamily Certificate of Compliance) forms, which cover the dwelling units and common systems such as ventilation, water heating and lighting.
Projects we cover
What’s included
- LMCC certificates of compliance (performance or prescriptive)
- Per-unit modeling and orientation analysis
- Ventilation and water-heating system review
- Solar PV / battery requirement review
- Required field verification list
- Plan-check revisions (see pricing)
Is a duplex single-family or multifamily under the Energy Code?
It depends on the building configuration. Two dwellings in one building are typically treated as multifamily; we confirm classification before modeling.
What makes multifamily compliance different?
Shared walls, central systems, common areas and building-level PV requirements. The LMCC form set has dedicated sections for these.
Which compliance forms are used?
Low-rise multifamily projects use LMCC forms (e.g. LMCC-PRF-01 for the performance path). Taller multifamily buildings may involve nonresidential-style NRCC documentation.
What documents do I need?
- Floor plans for each unit type
- Elevations and sections
- Unit matrix (unit types, counts, floor levels)
- Window schedule
- Mechanical and plumbing design (central vs individual systems)
- Common-area lighting plan if applicable
Missing something? Order anyway — we’ll flag gaps and, where appropriate, use code-minimum assumptions with your approval.
How we prepare your report
- 01Plan & data intake
We review your plans for completeness — floor plans, elevations, sections, window schedule and mechanical notes — and flag anything missing before modeling starts.
- 02Climate zone & scope confirmation
We confirm the project’s climate zone from the site address using the CEC lookup, and the compliance scope (new construction, addition, alteration).
- 03Energy modeling
The building is modeled in CEC-approved compliance software, choosing the performance or prescriptive path that best fits your design.
- 04Technical review
Inputs are checked against the plans: areas, orientations, assemblies, fenestration, HVAC and water heating, PV and battery requirements.
- 05Delivery & revisions
You receive the signed compliance documents as PDF, ready to print onto the plan set, with included revisions for plan-check comments.
Frequently asked questions
How is multifamily priced?
A base price for the first unit plus a per-unit amount for each additional unit. Large projects receive a custom quote.
Do identical units need separate modeling?
Identical units still differ by orientation, floor level and exposure, which affects results. We account for each.