Quality Insulation Inspection (QII)
ECC / HERS QII Verification in Northern California
Quality Insulation Inspection (QII) is one of the most impactful field verifications required under the California Energy Code.
QII ensures that the insulation installed in the building actually performs to the R-values specified in the energy plans and that the building envelope is sealed correctly before drywall and finishes are installed.
Pacific Airflow provides certified ECC / HERS QII verification for builders, insulation contractors, and homeowners across Northern California.
When Is QII Required?
QII is required when:
The energy compliance documents specify QII as a compliance path
New construction requires verified envelope performance
Multifamily projects require envelope verification
The building design relies on proper insulation installation for energy performance
A project requires ECC / HERS documentation for permit closeout
QII must be performed before drywall so corrections can be made while framing is still exposed.
What Is QII?
QII verifies that insulation is installed correctly, completely, and without defects that reduce its effectiveness.
It is not enough for insulation to be present — it must be installed to strict quality standards defined in the Residential Appendix (RA2) of the Energy Code.
During a QII, we verify:
Correct R-values in walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs
Proper insulation contact with all framing members
No compression behind wiring, plumbing, or framing
Full cavity fill with no gaps or voids
Proper installation at top plates and bottom plates to prevent air leakage
Proper installation around windows, doors, and penetrations
Proper installation of blown insulation verified by thickness or weight
Moisture conditions within acceptable limits
Thermal envelope continuity throughout the structure
This inspection ensures the building performs as designed.
Why QII Matters
Poor insulation installation is one of the biggest hidden causes of:
Failed blower door tests
Drafts and uneven room temperatures
Moisture problems and condensation
Mold and mildew risk
High heating and cooling bills
Poor overall building performance
You only get one opportunity to install insulation correctly before the walls are closed.
QII ensures it’s done right the first time.
What We Look For On Site
During a QII, an ECC / HERS Rater will:
Walk the entire structure before drywall
Photograph and document all insulation areas
Compare installation to the energy compliance documents
Verify materials match manufacturer R-values
Identify any areas needing correction
Work directly with the insulation contractor or builder to fix issues immediately
Many corrections can be made while we are still on site, avoiding delays.
ECC / HERS Certified Documentation
Once the installation passes QII:
A Certificate of Verification is registered with the ECC Provider (CHEERS)
Documentation is accepted by all Northern California building departments
The project is cleared to proceed to drywall and inspection
This is official proof that the insulation matches what the permit was issued for.
If Corrections Are Needed
If installation does not meet the required standard:
A correction notice is provided
Issues are fixed immediately where possible
Photos or re-inspection verifies correction
Certification is issued once compliant
Our goal is to help the project pass — not create delays.
Serving Northern California Builders and Insulation Contractors
Pacific Airflow provides QII verification for:
Single family homes
Multifamily projects
ADUs
New construction projects requiring envelope verification
We coordinate directly with insulation crews, builders, and energy consultants to keep projects moving.
Schedule Your QII Inspection
If your energy compliance documents call for QII, this inspection must occur before drywall.
Pacific Airflow is your local ECC / HERS testing partner for compliant QII verification across Northern California.
Contact us today to schedule your inspection.