What Is a Florida Energy Code Compliance Report?

A Florida energy code compliance report is a document that demonstrates a proposed building's compliance with the Florida Energy Efficiency Code for Building Construction (Florida Energy Code, or FEC). The Florida Energy Code is based on the ASHRAE 90.1 standard and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), with Florida-specific amendments. The compliance report is required for all new construction and major renovation permits in Florida — it must be submitted with the building permit application before the permit can be issued. The report covers the building envelope (walls, roof, windows, doors, insulation), HVAC system efficiency, water heating system, and interior and exterior lighting. Pineland Engineering prepares energy code compliance reports for residential and commercial projects throughout Florida.

For residential buildings (single-family homes, townhouses, and low-rise multifamily up to 3 stories), Florida Energy Code compliance is typically demonstrated using the performance path with EnergyGauge USA software. The software models the proposed home's energy use and compares it to a reference home. The proposed home must use equal or less energy than the reference home to comply. Key compliance elements include: wall and ceiling insulation (minimum R-13 walls, R-30 ceiling for most of Florida); window performance (maximum U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient based on climate zone); HVAC system efficiency (minimum SEER2 for cooling, HSPF2 for heat pumps); duct leakage (maximum 4% total duct leakage); and water heater efficiency. Florida's climate zones (Zone 1: Miami-Dade, Monroe; Zone 2: most of Florida; Zone 3: North Florida) affect the specific requirements.

For commercial buildings and high-rise residential (4+ stories), Florida Energy Code compliance is demonstrated through energy modeling using software such as eQUEST, EnergyPlus, or DOE-2. The model must show that the proposed building uses equal or less energy than a baseline building defined by ASHRAE 90.1. Key compliance elements for commercial buildings include: building envelope (roof, walls, windows, skylights); HVAC system type and efficiency; lighting power density (watts per square foot by space type); lighting controls (occupancy sensors, daylight controls); water heating; and service water heating. For restaurants and food service facilities, the energy model must account for commercial kitchen equipment loads. Pineland Engineering's MEP engineers prepare commercial energy models and compliance reports for all building types.

Pineland Engineering (AR102594 · PE 39202) prepares Florida Energy Code compliance reports for residential and commercial projects throughout Florida. Our services include: residential energy compliance reports using EnergyGauge USA ($350–$750 per report); Manual J heating and cooling load calculations for HVAC sizing ($400–$900); Manual D duct design; commercial energy modeling using eQUEST or EnergyPlus ($1,500–$5,000 depending on building size and complexity); and LEED and Green Building energy documentation. Most residential energy reports are completed within 3–5 business days. Call (239) 233-5133 or request a quote online.