(a) All Rehabilitation activities shall comply with this chapter.

(b) Certifications of compliance with this chapter shall be conducted by the Administrator or a code or other qualified inspector for release of final payment from the Department as outlined in the Program Rule. Inspectors selected by the Administrator to verify compliance with this chapter must be certified by the Administrator to have sufficient professional certifications, relevant education, or experience in a field directly related to home inspection, which may include, but is not limited to, installing, servicing, repairing or maintaining the structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems found in Single Family Housing Units.

(c) If the proposed scope of work or the awarded construction contract for the Rehabilitation of an existing single family residential unit includes an item described in paragraphs (1) - (10) of this subsection, the specific requirement so noted in paragraphs (1) - (10) of this subsection shall apply:

(1) Replacement or installation of central heating and cooling equipment and appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the requirements of Chapter 14 of the 2015 International Residential Code;

(2) Replacement or installation of duct systems serving heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 16 of the 2015 International Residential Code;

(3) If central heating and cooling equipment is replaced or installed, attic insulation shall be installed or increased according to Chapter 11, Figure N1102.1.2 of the 2015 International Residential Code, including insulation covering the top plates of exterior walls. Eave baffles and access hatches shall be installed as specified in Chapter 11, Sections N1102.2.3- N1102.2.4 of the 2015 International Residential Code;

(4) If ductless heating and cooling systems (also known as mini-split, multi-split, or variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heat pump systems) are replaced or installed, they shall be ENERGY STAR certified;

(5) If exhaust fans are replaced or installed in bathrooms or kitchens, they shall be ENERGY STAR certified and installed in accordance with Chapter 15 of the 2015 International Residential Code;

(6) If windows are installed, they shall be ENERGY STAR certified windows, meeting the U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient for the climate zone of the dwelling as identified in Chapter 11, Table N1102.1.2 of the 2015 International Residential Code;

(7) If doors are installed, they shall be ENERGY STAR certified doors;

(8) Electrical fixtures, equipment, and appliances that are replaced or installed, where applicable, shall be ENERGY STAR certified products;

(9) Plumbing fixtures that are replaced or installed, where applicable, shall be WaterSense labeled products; and

(10) Domestic water heaters, storage and tankless, when replaced or installed, shall meet the Federal Energy Conservation Standards required by 10 CFR §430.32, as they may be revised from time to time.

Source Note: The provisions of this §21.6 adopted to be effective January 2, 2022, 46 TexReg 9005