Can a Contractor or Subcontractor Do a Rescheck Report? (The Simple Answer for Construction Pros)

Penned by Jobe Leonard from Rescheck.info, an admirer of all who successfully complete a Rescheck.

Jobe Leonard Rescheck.info

The most common question I hear from builders, general contractors, and specialized subcontractors is a simple one: “Can I complete my own REScheck report?”

The simple answer is a resounding yes, you can.

However, the real question is whether it’s the best use of your valuable time and expertise. While many professionals can use the U.S. Department of Energy’s REScheck Web or Desktop software, many discover that the learning curve and time commitment of detailed energy modeling often outweigh the cost of professional support.

Here is a look at what it takes for a contractor or subcontractor to successfully navigate the process:

The REScheck DIY Roadmap for Professionals

To begin, you must have a complete set of blueprints. The REScheck program requires a precise inventory of your building envelope’s components and dimensions. As a contractor, you will need to accurately extract the following information from your plans to input into the software:

• What is my local building code (e.g., IECC 2018, 2021, 2024)?

• What type of foundation am I using (slab, crawl space, basement)? Is it insulated?

• What is the specific wall construction and the type of insulation being used (e.g., batt, foam, SIPs)?

• What are the exact brand, type, and design specifications (U-factor, SHGC) of all windows?

• What are the specifications (U-factor) for all doors, including garage doors?

• What type of roof system and corresponding insulation (R-value) does the home have?

• What is the precise square footage and lineal footage for each of these components?

• Where is the jobsite located (to determine climate zone)?

• Will the building inspector in that jurisdiction accept a REScheck report completed by the contractor?

Compliance Check: Navigating the Pass/Fail Zone

Once all components and areas are accurately entered into the REScheck Web program, you click the “check compliance” button.

• If you Pass: The report will show a percentage value indicating how much you exceed the code requirements.

• If you Fail: It will show you by how much your proposed design misses the mark.

REScheck works by allowing “trade-offs.” If you’ve used a standard window package that is slightly less efficient than code allows, you must compensate by adding better insulation in the walls or roof to balance the total energy usage (UA calculation). While this may seem like an intrusion, remember: no one ever complains about having lower energy bills after a structure is complete.

The Value of Professional REScheck Consulting

Many REScheck reports that come across my desk were initially attempted by a contractor or subcontractor who became “stumped.” The software is powerful, but optimizing a failing report often requires in-depth knowledge of component trade-offs.

The value of allowing me to handle your REScheck is that I know which components to upgrade—and by how much—to achieve compliance with minimal cost impact.

• Specialized Expertise: decades of experience with Rescheck software to apply to your construction project.

• Dedicated Support:  Rescheck reports in about 4-6 hours with free modifications.  $79.

• National Service: Whether your structure is being built in Texas, Alabama, Utah, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Tennessee, Hawaii, or anywhere else in the United States, I am happy to serve you and ensure you have the peace of mind that you are building a properly insulated and compliant structure.

Final Recap: Yes, a contractor can do their own REScheck. Log onto REScheck Web, gather your blueprint data, and start calculating the areas. If you get stuck, don’t waste project time.  Email pdf plans, jobsite address, and square footage to service@rescheck.info now.