The Role of a Rater

Phius Certified Rater training is geared toward professionals with experience testing and commissioning single-family, townhome, and low-rise multifamily buildings. This designation is built upon the RESNET HERS Rater.

For a project pursuing Phius Certification, the Rater is responsible for 3rd party quality assurance, on-site inspections and performance testing throughout the construction process and at final construction.

These professionals are critical to ensure that the building is built and operating to the plans and specifications that are design certified by Phius.

Key Competencies of a Phius Certified Rater

Building Science

Building Science

Phius professionals learn how controlling moisture, heat, and airflow in buildings define best practices in building design for comfort, efficiency, durability, and air quality.

High-Performance Building Enclosures

High-Performance Building Enclosures

From moisture control strategies to thermal-bridge-free design strategies, passive building places emphasis on getting the enclosure right. Phius Certified Raters inspect the enclosure and quality of insulation installed.

High-Performance Mechanical Systems

High-Performance Mechanical Systems

Balanced ventilation and high-performance heating, cooling, and domestic hot water systems are critical elements of passive building design. Raters must understand how to commission and test high performance equipment.

Airtightness Testing Protocol & Troubleshooting

Airtightness Testing Protocol & Troubleshooting

An airtight enclosure is cornerstone to passive building. Phius Certified Raters understand testing protocols and how to inspect and troubleshoot an air control layer in the building enclosure.

Phius Certification Requirements

Phius Certification Requirements

Raters are responsible for ensuring the project meets all inspectable, mandatory requirements and have a deep understanding of the Phius Certification program requirements.

Co-Requisite Program Requirements

Co-Requisite Program Requirements

The third party co-requisite programs such as Energy Star, EPA Indoor airPLUS and DOE Zero Energy Ready Home build the foundation for Phius' set of quality assurance requirements. Raters hold the knowledge of these foundational programs for residential construction.

Join the crew

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Learn more about the Phius Certified Rater course and next steps to pursue the professional credential.
Phius Certified Rater Program Overview

Join the Phius Alliance

Interested in growing your network and knowledge, while advocating for the Phius passive building standard? Find a local chapter near you.