Off-site residential construction is becoming increasingly popular in the home building industry. It is estimated that more than 25,000 (non-HUD code) homes are constructed off-site each year. This number will only grow as construction costs and labor challenges continue. Currently, due to the process of constructing off-site homes, there are challenges to have the homes rated through the current RESNET process. RESNET sees the expansion of HERS® Ratings of off-site construction as an important element in meeting the goal of a million ratings a year by the end of 2028. To meet this challenge, RESNET appointed an Off-Site Construction Advisory Group. Steve Byers of EnergyLogic was appointed as the chair of the group. Members of the advisory group are: • Steve Byers – EnergyLogic (Chair) • Bruce Bennett – GDS Associates Inc • Chris Isom – Vederra • Luke Lehman – ICC NTA • Tony Lisanti – Integral Building + Design, Inc. • Ryan Meres – RESNET • Shanti Pless – NREL After more than a year of work, including public feedback, the advisory group submitted its final recommendations to the RESNET Board in September. At the September 26, 2025, virtual meeting of the RESNET Board, the Offsite Construction Pilot Program was approved. The pilot program will begin in October and last for 12 months. If no significant concerns are uncovered during the pilot, Rating Providers will be allowed to continue operating under the pilot protocols until a final RESNET Standard is approved. The pilot protocols provide for two inspection options: • Remote/Virtual Inspections • Certification of existing third-party inspectors as RFIs* *This practice is currently allowed under RESNET Standards but has been included in the pilot protocols to clarify implementation. These pilot protocols are in addition to the use of HERS Raters and Rating Field Inspectors for in-plant inspections, as currently allowed under RESNET Standards. To participate in the pilot program, RESNET Rating Providers must complete this form. To review the full pilot program protocols and requirements, click here.
