Working With Homes Certified Under the BSI System
What is BSI?
BSI (Building Science Institute) is a national Home Certification Organization recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy. We provide oversight for home energy ratings and certifications such as ENERGY STAR®, ERI, and Efficient New Homes.
How is this different from other certification systems?
The biggest difference is consistency.
Homes certified under the BSI system use a single, nationally maintained calculation engine, which means the same home produces the same result—every time, regardless of who performs the rating.
That reduces surprises, rework, and last-minute questions.
Will this change my inspection or construction process?
No.
Your building practices, schedules, and inspections remain the same. What changes is what happens behind the scenes—clearer documentation, more predictable reviews, and fewer delays caused by conflicting interpretations.
Does this slow down certifications or approvals?
No—most builders experience the opposite.
Because documentation and review are standardized and checked earlier in the process, certifications tend to move more smoothly with fewer callbacks.
Are the certifications still recognized by code officials, lenders, and programs?
Yes.
BSI certifications are recognized by the EPA, DOE, and participating programs. Your ENERGY STAR®, ERI, and Efficient New Homes certifications remain valid and defensible.
Will my scores change?
Scores may be more consistent, but not artificially higher or lower.
The goal is reliability—so results can be trusted, planned around, and explained easily if needed.
What happens if there’s a question or issue?
Issues are handled through a standards-based, documented process, not ad-hoc judgment calls.
That means faster answers, clearer explanations, and less back-and-forth for you.
Why should I care which oversight system my rater uses?
Because inconsistency costs time and money.
A system designed to prevent discrepancies—rather than explain them after the fact—means:
• Fewer delays
• Less friction with inspectors
• More predictable outcomes
• Less risk to your schedule and reputation
Do I have to do anything differently?
No.
Your rater manages the certification process. The benefit to you is a smoother, more predictable experience.
Bottom line?
BSI was built to make certifications boring in the best possible way—predictable, defensible, and on time.
That’s good for raters.
It’s even better for builders.
