The Weekend View:

PHI Path to Certification for Multifamily Projects

In less than three weeks, the new building energy code mandating Passive House multifamily will be in effect in Boston and other municipalities across Massachusetts. This is great news for Massachusetts residents who want healthy, comfortable indoor living conditions year-round while also ensuring their buildings are as energy-efficient as can be, but what does it mean if you’re a designer or builder? If you’re feeling some hesitation about these new codes, our weekend throwback will help clear everything up.

Earlier this year, our Executive Director, Ken Levenson, teamed up with Passive House Massachusetts to outline the PHI Path to Certification for Multifamily projects, including a list of reasons why it’s beneficial to go through the certification process. The independent review that lays the foundation for the process helps designers and builders avoid false starts and errors, provides a pathway for professional development of team members (including the ability to earn or renew your CPHD credential), and helps to control project costs.

Check out the video below for a great overview of the stages of certification, the criteria a project needs to meet, and the different levels of certification, including the options for retrofits.

As Ken makes clear in his presentation, constructing a great building means assembling a great team. When the architects, engineers, consultants, and tradespeople all speak the language of Passive House, team priorities, logic, and outcomes become much more streamlined. Our Certified Passive House Designer course will ensure that you can start your project on the right path from day one, laying the foundation for safer, more comfortable, energy-efficient buildings, like the newly certified Winthrop Center by Handel Architects, located in Boston.

Our CPHD course takes a flexible approach to learning, giving you the option to learn at your own pace while still making sure you’re ready for the exam. The next session kicks off on January 18th, but you can register now for immediate access to course materials. Massachusetts residents can even apply for a 50-100% subsidy on course costs made available by BE+, but you have to apply by December 28th to take advantage of the opportunity.

New building codes are upon us in Massachusetts, and it won’t be long until other states follow suit. Future-proof your buildings and your career by making sure you stay ahead of the curve. Become a CPHD and lay the foundation for your next great project. Learn more here.