RBES Guidelines

Key Point: RBES is a state law (30 V.S.A. § 51). Barnard’s role is to inform applicants and point to the correct state forms and instructions. RBES certificates are completed after construction and recorded in the land records.

1) What is RBES and who must comply?

RBES is Vermont’s statewide residential energy code. It applies to virtually all new residential construction and to qualifying additions, alterations, and renovations. The code is adopted by statute at 30 V.S.A. § 51.

2) Barnard’s process (what we do and don’t do)

At permit application: Barnard provides RBES information and links (this page) to fulfill the statutory notice obligation.
No general Certificate of Occupancy (CO): Barnard issues a CO only where required by local bylaw (e.g., within the Flood Hazard Overlay). Otherwise, Barnard does not condition final occupancy on RBES.
After construction: The builder/architect/engineer or accredited rater completes the RBES Project Completion Certificate and records it in the Barnard land records and posts a copy in the dwelling (typically near the electrical panel), as required by state law.

3) How to comply with RBES

You may use one of three compliance paths. The Energy Code Assistance Center provides support for all methods.

Package + Points (prescriptive) – follow the mandatory measures and select points to reach the required score.
REScheck – use U.S. DOE’s software to demonstrate compliance.
HERS Rating – engage a certified HERS rater and meet the required index.

See Energy Code Support – Efficiency Vermont for how-to guides and training.

4) Required certificate (after construction)

Upon completion, complete and sign the official RBES certificate and file it properly:

RBES Project Completion Certificate

Download the current, fillable certificate:

Who signs? Builder, licensed professional engineer, licensed architect, or accredited energy rater (per statute).

Owner/Builder Disclosure (if applicable)

For qualifying owner/builder projects, use the disclosure statement instead of the standard certificate.

Owner/Builder Disclosure (see “Energy Code Support” page)

Where to file the certificate

Record the certificate with the Barnard Town Clerk (land records).
Post the certificate inside the dwelling (e.g., near electric panel) as required by 30 V.S.A. § 51.

5) Help & technical assistance

Energy Code Assistance Center — questions on RBES compliance, tools, and training: 855‑887‑0673 | Energy Code Support
Vermont Department of Public Service — RBES overview and handbook: DOE Energy Codes: Vermont · 2024 RBES (ICC portal)

6) Frequently asked questions

Do I submit the RBES certificate with my zoning application?

No. RBES certification documents the as-built condition. Complete the certificate after construction, then record it in the land records and post a copy in the dwelling. RBES certificates must be recorded and provided to the Department of Public Service within 30 days of occupancy or use, per 30 V.S.A. § 51.

Does Barnard check or enforce RBES?

Barnard’s role is to inform applicants about RBES and point to the correct state forms. Except where a Certificate of Occupancy is required by local bylaw (e.g., flood hazard development), Barnard does not inspect or enforce RBES.

What happens if the RBES certificate is not filed?

Failure to comply with RBES may expose the builder/owner to state-level remedies and can complicate real estate transactions. For assistance, contact the Energy Code Assistance Center.

Reminder: RBES is independent of zoning approval. You must still obtain all required municipal and state permits (e.g., wastewater/water supply, flood hazard) before construction.