WaterSense® New Homes Inspector Training Version 1.1 [Date]

Training Overview Module 1: Background and Introduction to WaterSense
Module 2: WaterSense for New Homes Module 3: Inspector Roles & Responsibilities Module 4: New Home Inspections Module 5: Quality Assurance & Wrap Up

Background & Introduction to WaterSense
Module 1: Background & Introduction to WaterSense

Training Purpose Training for raters or other individuals interested in conducting inspections of new homes for EPA’s WaterSense program. In depth overview of the WaterSense new home inspection and certification process. This training addresses modifications made in Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification and is a requirement before inspecting homes in accordance with the revised specification.

Training Objectives Participants should understand:
The objectives of the WaterSense new homes program. The roles and responsibilities of inspectors. The criteria in Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification. How to conduct inspections for WaterSense.

Need for Water Efficiency
Between 1950 and 2000, U.S. population doubled while the demand on public supply systems more than tripled. Since 2011 more than half the country has experienced some level of drought. With populations continuing to rise, using water efficiently helps save water for future generations.

Need for Water Efficiency
Recent severe droughts in a large part of the country underscore the importance of examining how we use our water supplies. This is a map showing droughts throughout the country. Even some parts in the mid west near the great lakes are experiencing drought. Drought is not isolated to the southwest. This underscores why we need to examine how we are using our water supplies.

What is WaterSense? What Is WaterSense?
Voluntary partnership and labeling program launched by EPA in 2006. Simple way for consumers to identify products that use 20% less water and perform well. WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the following mission: Promote the value of water and help Americans make smart decisions regarding water use and water-using products Increase the adoption of water-efficient products and services by consumers and organizations WaterSense is a simple way for consumers to identify products, new homes, and services that use less water and perform well.

Where Is the WaterSense Label?
Residential and commercial products WaterSense labeled toilets use 20% less water than the standard. WaterSense labeled faucets and accessories use 30% less water than the standard. WaterSense labeled showerheads use 20% less water than standard. WaterSense labeled flushing urinals use 50% less water than the standard. WaterSense labeled weather-based irrigation controllers apply water based on plants’ needs. Professional certification programs Irrigation certification programs with a significant water efficiency component can apply for the label. New homes WaterSense labeled new homes are designed to use at least 20% less water than traditional homes. WaterSense has labeled products and services in multiple areas.

WaterSense Labeled Products
Tank-Type Toilets 1,100 labeled models Showerheads 600 labeled models Irrigation Controllers 30 labeled models Tank-Type Toilets More than 1000 labeled models Faucets/Faucet Accessories More than 3,000 labeled models Urinals 90 labeled models Showerheads Nearly 5300 labeled models Professional Certification Programs Irrigation designers, auditors, and installation/maintenance professionals who pass the certification can become partners New Homes More than 120 labeled homes! Lavatory Faucets 3,400 labeled models Flushing Urinals 140 labeled models Labeled products are listed at:

WaterSense for New Homes
Module 2: WaterSense for New Homes

Voluntary specification that promotes water efficiency of new homes—both indoors and outdoors. WaterSense labeled new homes will: Reduce water use in new homes by at least 20%. Educate homeowners about continuing water-efficient behaviors. Encourage community infrastructure savings.

Backed by the credibility of the U.S. EPA. The first national new home label to comprehensively address water efficiency. Designed to work with other green building programs so that homes can receive multiple certifications (e.g., ENERGY STAR® or LEED for Homes). Homes are certified by an independent third party. In designing the program and certification infrastructure, WaterSense consulted with LEED and patterned the certification and inspection process based on ENERGY STAR’s homes program so that providers who provide services for these other programs can easily add WaterSense to their portfolio. The program can also stand alone, if a provider wants to only offer certification services for WaterSense.

Water Use at Home More than 1.2 million homes were constructed in 2010 and in the United States. On average, 70% of water is used indoors, 30% outdoors. Outdoor use is higher in Southwest and other regions. Toilets, faucets, showers, clothes washers, and leaks are biggest indoor users. This chart shows how most households use water. WaterSense’s new homes program aims to address each of these areas, thus reducing overall household water use.

Home builders must meet specific water-efficiency criteria to qualify their homes for the WaterSense label: Indoor Leak prevention Service pressure Plumbing fixtures Hot water distribution Appliances and other equipment (if installed) Metering (for multi-family homes) Outdoor Landscape design Irrigation (if installed) Homeowner Education Homeowner OR occupant and building operating manual The WaterSense specification address water use in each of these areas. The picture here is of a home that was labeled under EPA’s pilot program for WaterSense labeled new homes. Note as we go through that a * denotes new additions/changes to the specification as contained in Version 1.1.

New Home Eligibility Single-family homes and townhomes.
Homes in new multi-family buildings including: Residential units in multi-family buildings, three stories or less in size. Residential units in multi-family buildings of any height, including mixed-use buildings, provided the units have independent heating, cooling, and hot water systems separate from other units. Units in buildings that utilize central domestic hot water systems powered by alternative energies (e.g., solar or geothermal) if the alternative energy source provides at least 50 percent of the hot water needs for the residential units. Make clear that the label applies to the individual units in multi-family buildings. It should also be noted that homes in building that fall outside of the scope are NOT inherently inefficient. Rather they are likely to have uses of water which are not captured by the criteria in WaterSense’s specification.

Certification & Labeling Structure
Program Administrators Licensed Certification Providers Inspectors Builders The certification system incorporates a series of approval and oversight steps to ensure that only homes that meet EPA’s criteria for water-efficiency and performance earn the WaterSense label. As mentioned previously, this process is patterned after ENERGY STAR’s homes program and the HERS system. It was designed so that organizations or people that provide services under that structure can also provide certification services under WaterSense’s certification structure with little changes to their existing processes and procedures. Builders and licensed certification providers are WaterSense program partners because of their role in promoting the program. These organizations are also required to submit data to EPA regarding the homes they have certified or built, respectively. Two major differences from HERS/ENERGY STAR: inspectors (or raters) are not required to partner directly with WaterSense There is only one kind of provider (as opposed to rating provider, training provider, etc.). All approved providers are approved to train inspectors and provide a sampling protocol if they chose.

Certification & Labeling Structure
Program Administrator Independent oversight organization Approved by EPA Trains quality assurance designees (QADs) and approves providers Oversees licensed certification providers Licensed Certification Provider Are approved by program administrators & licensed by EPA Employ at least one QAD who has completed the mandatory training Employs or contracts with inspectors, trains inspectors, oversees inspections, provides quality assurance Holds final certification decision Can generates the WaterSense label certificate and sticker Inspector Receive required training from an approved provider Works for (or contracts with) an approved provider Individual who provides new home inspection services Builder Partner Signs a partnership agreement with EPA Commits to building WaterSense Labeled New Homes RESNET (the verification oversight organization for the ENERGY STAR program) is currently the only approved program administrator for WaterSense, although the process is open to other organizations that meet EPA’s qualification criteria. Licensed certification providers are the organizations that train and oversee inspectors.

This is a copy of the WaterSense label certificate.
Licensed certification providers will receive this as an electronic template from EPA and should fill it out, print, and sign for each certified new home. The inspector that conducted the inspection should also sign the certificate. The provider will give this certificate (hardcopy or uneditable digital copy) to the builder of the certified new home to be included with the home’s documentation. Make note that this is a new label, we have taken out the SM designation.

Inspector Roles & Responsibilities
Module 3: Inspector Roles & Responsibilities

Step 1. Work with a Certification Provider
Work with a WaterSense licensed certification provider Can be a direct employee or an independent inspector/rater. List of licensed certification providers is posted on the WaterSense website: Receive mandatory inspector training from licensed certification provider. Disclose any conflicts of interest to licensed certification provider. Inspectors must work for or contract with a licensed provider. EPA offers the option for contracting to ensure maximum flexibility in the marketplace and to ensure that there are certification providers available that can conduct certifications for multiple programs. In order to work for a particular licensed certification provider, however, the inspector must attend its training and disclose any conflicts of interest it has with each new home inspection. Provider may waive this training requirement if the inspector has prior experience conducting inspections for WaterSense.

Step 2. Coordinate Inspections
Schedule inspection(s) with builder partner. For multiple homes in a subdivision, planned community, or multi-family building implement sampling protocol (optional). Provide builder partner with copies of inspection materials, including: Inspection checklists. Any other tools used to document the home’s compliance.

Step 3. Implement Sampling Protocol
Every home must be directly inspected unless the licensed certification provider offers sampling. Every home, whether sampled or directly inspected, is subject to oversight. Sampling eligibility: Sampling is applicable only for multiple homes being built within a subdivision, planned community, or multi-family building. An inspector must directly inspect and a licensed certification provider must certify the builder’s first seven homes (or residential units). EPA allows licensed certification providers the option to offer sampling to production builders who which to build multiple labeled homes in a subdivision. Offering sampling is not a requirement. The licensed certification provider may require the direct inspection of each home. Sampling is based on the standard RESNET procedures. If sampling is offered, builders must qualify by demonstrating compliance with at least 7 homes. ALL homes are subject to oversight and could be randomly selected for re-inspection.

Sampling Protocol To sample: For sample homes that DO pass inspection:
Randomly select 1 home from every group of 7 homes scheduled for completion within 30 days of each other. Inspect the sample home as normal. For every home or multi-family building with an irrigation system installed, verify that the system was designed or installed and audited by a WaterSense irrigation partner, or that the builder obtained a waiver. For sample homes that DO pass inspection: If the sample home is certified, all 7 homes receive certification. For sample homes that DON’T pass inspection: None of the homes covered by the sample pass unless they are inspected individually. Sampling cannot be reinstated until 7 additional homes have been directly inspected and certified. If the sample home passes all criteria except its irrigation system, the other 7 homes are still eligible for certification. However, any homes whose irrigation systems don’t meet the criteria (pass the audit) will (individually) not be qualified for certification. Note that irrigation systems fall outside the sampling protocol. So builders must provide the necessary audit documentation for each home. There’s more discussion of these requirements later.

Step 4. Conduct Inspection
Utilize inspection guidance, inspection checklist, and other materials provided. Document the home’s water-efficiency features and compliance with the WaterSense criteria. Allow builder an opportunity to address areas of nonconformity. Note nonconformities and any corrective actions on the inspection documentation. EPA will provide inspection guidance, and an inspection checklist that inspectors can use to conduct the inspection. Use the checklist (or similar tool) to document the home’s water-efficiency features and compliance with WaterSense’s criteria. Work with the builder to correct any areas that do not meet the specification – however you must note these and the corrective actions on the inspection documentation. Keeping a record of the nonconformities identified and corrected during the inspection will help EPA determine if adjustments need to be made to the specification or if additional guidance is needed for builders.

Step 5. Notify Certification Provider
Upon inspection, provide the licensed certification provider with: Builder partner contact information Address or lot number of inspected new home (for sampled homes, note which homes the inspection covers) Documentation of home’s compliance with WaterSense specification (including nonconformities and corrective actions) Name and contact information of inspector Inspection date(s) Licensed certification provider holds final certification decision. Upon certification, sign the WaterSense label certificate. Licensed certification provider will issue the certificate. The inspection checklist will identify the information that the inspector should provide to the licensed certification provider, however, if using your own form, make sure you identify the items on this list. The signature on the certificate can also be electronic or stamped.

Step 6. Offer Ongoing Support
Maintain files of inspected homes for 3 years. Submit to licensed certification provider’s annual review of 10% of certification files. Maintain status/training as required by the licensed certification provider.

Summary of Inspector Responsibilities
Work for or contract with a licensed certification provider. Coordinate inspections with the builder. Implement sampling protocol (if applicable). Conduct new home inspections. Notify licensed certification provider of new home inspection. Offer other ongoing support.

Module 4: New Home Inspections

Inspection Preparation
Gather inspection materials Inspection checklists Pressure gauge Watch with second hand or stop watch Digital thermometer such as a digital food thermometer Bucket or flow bags with volume measures marked Dye tablets for toilets Flashlight Digital camera Tape measure Equipment for determining slope such as a clinometer or laser level

Inspection Checklist

Inspection Preparation
Provide the builder with copies of inspection-related materials. Gather necessary paperwork/documentation from builder needed to document the home’s compliance. Confirm address of the home to be inspected. Photograph the front of the home and its landscape. Document the inspection date and start time.

Inspection Elements Optional Elements: Required Elements: Dishwashers
Clothes washers* Evaporative cooling systems Water softeners Drinking water treatment systems Irrigation system* Pools/spas* Required Elements: Leak prevention Service pressure Hot water delivery system Toilets/urinals Bathroom faucets Kitchen faucets Showerheads* Metering (multi-family)* Landscape design* Homeowner OR occupant and building operating manual* “Optional Elements” – These appliances/systems are not required to be installed by a builder. However, if the builder opts to install them, they must meet the criteria in the specification. (i.e. Their installation is optional, not the criteria established for them.) * Denotes changes made in Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification

Indoor Inspection: General
Pre-inspection Verify that water is turned on. Verify that hot water heater is turned on and set to a “normal” temperature. For multi-family buildings, conduct the indoor inspection for each residential unit for which the builder is applying for the WaterSense label (unless using a sampling protocol) The water supply and/or water heater is often turned off or to a low setting by the builder. Ensure that both are on and properly set to avoid false test results/the need for a retest. If you need to retest the system, you must wait until the system is completely cold again, which could take a few hours.

Indoor Inspection: Leak Prevention
There shall be no detected leaks from any water- using fixture, appliance, or equipment. Inspection: Check for visible leaks at all water supply connections and valves. Conduct a pressure loss test.

Indoor Inspection: Leak Prevention
Pressure loss test: Attach a pressure gauge to the cold water faucet for the washing machine and take a pressure reading before and after turning the water to the home or unit off. The pressure should remain constant. If the pressure drops, this indicates that the home has a leak. Work with the builder to find and fix any leaks before proceeding with the inspection. If the home or multi-family building has a separate water supply for irrigation, check both the indoor and outdoor water supply for leaks. detail.en.china.cn/provide/detail, html Check the water pressure of all systems serving the house. If indoor and outdoor water sources are different, check both. The water should be on a closed system so pressure should remain constant. If the pressure drops when the water is turned off, this indicates that water is leaking somewhere in the home. The pressure gauge should easily screw onto the outside hose spigot or another threaded connection (e.g. cold water faucet for clothes washer). An adaptor may be needed for some connections, such as to the kitchen sink or shower arm.

Indoor Inspection: Service Pressure
Static pressure for each home or residential unit shall be 60 pounds per square inch (psi) or less. Inspection: For homes supplied by groundwater wells verify that a pressure tank is installed and set to 60 psi. For homes with publicly supplied water: Document whether the home has a pressure-regulating valve downstream of the point of connection. OR Check the static pressure using a pressure gauge AND Gather written documentation from builder that the pressure supplied by the jurisdiction is 60 psi or less. The picture on this slide is of a pressure regulating valve. The home needs to have one of these devices upstream of the fixture connections (usually located just upstream of the water shutoff valve). Check with the builder to determine if the valve was adjusted to 60 psi or less. If the home does not have a pressure regulating valve, then the inspector needs to: Check the static pressure using a pressure gage (the results from the pressure loss test should suffice), in which case the reading should be 60 psi or less AND Gather documentation from the builder that indicates that the jurisdiction supplies water to the home at a pressure of 60 psi or less.

Indoor Inspection: Hot Water Delivery System
The system shall store no more than 0.5 gallons in any piping/manifold between the hot water source and any hot water fixture. No more than 0.6 gallons of water shall be collected from the fixture before hot water is delivered (accounts for water that must be removed from the system before hot water can be delivered). Recirculation systems must be demand initiated (push button or motion sensor). Timer and temperature activated recirculation systems do not meet this requirement. *Note that residential units in multi-family buildings of three stories or less or units that use alternative energy to supply hot water can have a shared hot water delivery system, but criteria and inspection applies to each unit.

Test hot water delivery system before testing other indoor features. Test all hot water delivery systems in the home. Verify that the hot water heater is on. Locate the fixture (faucet or showerhead) farthest from the hot water source. Check supply connections for leaks. For demand-initiated recirculating systems, turn on applicable switch or hit the control button for hot water in the appropriate room and wait 40 seconds. For recirculating systems, verify that the system is not timer/temperature based.

Place a bucket/bag marked at 0.6 gallons underneath the fixture to capture all water from the fixture. Turn on hot water completely. Place a digital thermometer in the water stream. Note the starting water temperature. Once the fixture has discharged 0.6 gallons, turn off the water. Record the ending water temperature. The temperature must increase by 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hot water delivery system test Small digital thermometers, like NSF-certified food thermometers will be the easiest to use. The larger the probe, the longer it may take the thermometer to calibrate. It is important that you can get results almost “instantaneously”.

Indoor Inspection: Toilets
All toilets shall be WaterSense labeled tank-type toilets. Inspection: Obtain the make and model name/number of all toilets installed. Verify that the toilets are included on the WaterSense labeled product registry: Check If the product isn’t on the list, verify it is labeled by e- mailing the WaterSense Helpline at Check the angle valve and connections for visible leaks. Angle valve

WaterSense Labeled Toilet List

Conduct a dye tablet test to ensure the flapper is functioning properly. Drop dye tablets into the toilet tank and wait 5 minutes. Check the toilet tank to see if the color leaked from the tank into the bowl. If color is observed in the bowl, the flapper is leaking and needs to be replaced. Flush the toilet within 5 to 10 minutes after inserting the dye tables to avoid staining.

Dye tablet test This picture shows a dye tablet test being conducted. Put the tablets in the tank and wait a few minutes. The water in the tank will change colors. If the flapper is leaking, water from the tank will seep into the toilet and the toilet bowl will also contain colored water. If there is no leak, the water in the bowl will remain clear (as shown in picture). Make sure to flush the toilet as soon as the test is completed – the dye tablets will stain if not flushed!

Check the water level setting of the tank. Remove tank lid. Flush toilet. Ensure water level is set so that water does not overflow from the overflow tube.

When the toilet tank fills, water should not flow over into this tube After the toilet is flushed and the tank refills the water level should settle right below the top of the overflow tube. If water overflows into the overflow tube the fill volume needs to be adjusted because the flush volume exceeds the WaterSense requirements.

Indoor Inspection: Flushing Urinals
If flushing urinals are installed they shall be WaterSense labeled. Inspection: Obtain the make and model name/number of all urinals installed. Verify that the flushing urinals are included on the WaterSense labeled product registry: Check If the product isn’t on the list, verify it is labeled by ing the WaterSense Helpline at Check connections for visible leaks.

Indoor Inspection: Bathroom Faucets
All bathroom sink faucets or faucet accessories (e.g., aerators) shall be WaterSense labeled. Inspection: Obtain the make and model numbers of all bathroom faucets or faucet accessories installed. Verify that the faucets are included on the WaterSense labeled product registry: Check If the product isn’t on the list, verify it is labeled by ing the WaterSense Helpline at

Check the maximum flow rate from each faucet (to ensure the aerator is present and functioning). Use a small bucket or attach a flow-measuring bag pre- marked for 0.25 gallons (1 quart) to the faucet spout. Turn on the water completely (both handles). Start the stop watch immediately when water is turned on. Turn off the water after 10 seconds. The volume of water collected should be 0.25 gallons or less. Check the faucet and hot and cold water connection hoses and valves for leaks. Cold water connection Hot water connection

Bathroom sink flow test

Indoor Inspection: Kitchen Sink Faucets
All kitchen sink faucets must have a maximum flow rate of 2.2 gpm. Inspection: Check the maximum flow rate from all kitchen sink faucets. Use a small bucket or attach a flow measuring bag pre- marked for 0.4 gallons to the faucet spout . Turn on the water completely (both handles). Start the stop watch immediately when the water is turned on. Turn off the water after 10 seconds. The volume of water collected should be 0.4 gallons or less. Check the faucet, valves, and or/connection hoses for leaks. The requirement establishes the maximum flow rate allowed – lower flow rates (i.e. test results under 0.4 gallons) are allowed. Valve and connection hoses

Indoor Inspection: Kitchen Sink Faucets
Kitchen sink flow test

Indoor Inspection: Showers*
Shower compartment requirements: The total allowable flow rate of water flowing at any given time from all showerheads must be limited to 2.0 gpm per 2,160 square inch (in2) increment or less of shower compartment floor area. Additional showerheads are allowed for each additional 2,160 in2 floor area increment, provided the total flow rate from all flowing devices in each compartment is less than or equal to 2.0 gpm and the additional showerheads are operated by separate controls. Showerhead requirements: All showerheads shall be WaterSense labeled. In cases where more than one showerhead or hand-held shower is provided in combination with others in a single device intended to be connected to a single shower outlet, the entire device must meet the maximum flow requirement in all possible operating modes.

Indoor Inspection: Showers
If it is a bath/shower combination, check the shower diverter for water seepage (should be minimal). Diverter

Threaded connection Inspection: Check the maximum flow rate from the showerhead(s). Use a bucket or attach a flow measuring bag pre-marked for gallons to the showerhead. Turn on the water completely (both handles if necessary). Start the stop watch immediately when the water is turned on. Turn off water after 10 seconds. The volume of water collected should be 0.35 gallons or less. Check each showerhead for leaks at the shower arm and showerhead threaded connection.

Indoor Inspection: Showers
Showerhead flow test It will work easier if you secure the pre-marked bag onto the showerhead using a rubberband. You can also hang a bucket from the showerhead by looping its handle over the showerhead.

Measure the water flowing from each showerhead, either together or individually. (If measured individually) add the maximum flow rates of water from each showerhead to determine the total flow rate. Measure the floor area of the shower compartment. If ≤ 2,160 in2, the total allowable volume of water collected should be ≤ 0.35 gallons. If between 2,161 in2 and 4,320 in2, the total allowable volume of water collected should be ≤ 0.7 gallons.

Indoor Inspection: Dishwashers
If a dishwasher is installed, it shall be ENERGY STAR® qualified. Inspection: Verify that the installed dishwasher has an ENERGY STAR label or that it is on the list of ENERGY STAR qualified dishwashers: h_dishwashers. Check for leaks from all visible connections and valves. Connections and valves

Indoor Inspection: Clothes Washers*
If clothes washer are installed, including those in common-use laundry rooms, they shall be ENERGY STAR qualified with a water factor (WF) ≤ 6.0 gallons per water cycle per cubic foot capacity. Inspection: Verify that all installed clothes washer, including those in common-use laundry rooms in multi-family buildings, are ENERGY STAR qualified with a WF of ≤ 6.0: ENERGY STAR qualified residential clothes washers: otheswashers. ENERGY STAR qualified commercial clothes washers: roductGroup&pgw_code=CCW Check for leaks from all visible connections and valves. As of January 1, 2011 ENERGY STAR no longer labels clothes washers with a water factor greater than 6. However, older models could still available through certain retailers, so it’s best to double check.

As of January 1, 2011 ENERGY STAR no longer labels clothes washers with a water factor greater than 6. However, older models could still available through certain retailers, so it’s best to double check.

Indoor Inspection: Evaporative Cooling Systems
If an evaporative cooling system is installed, it must meet the following criteria: Shall use a maximum of 3.5 gallons of water per ton hour of cooling when adjusted to maximum water use. Blowdown shall be based on the time of operation, not to exceed 3 times in 24 hours. Once-through or single-pass cooling systems, systems with continuous blowdown/bleedoff, and systems with timer-only mediated blowdown management do not meet the requirements.

Indoor Inspection: Evaporative Cooling Systems
Review manufacturer’s product literature and obtain documentation to verify: The evaporative cooling system meets the maximum of 3.5 gallons of water per ton hour. The blowdown does not exceed 3 times in 24 hours. The blowdown is controlled through conductivity or a basin temperature-based controller. Check for leaks from all visible connections and valves.

Indoor Inspection: Water Softeners
Salt/ brine tank Resin tank If a water softener is installed, it shall be certified to meet NSF/ANSI 44 including Section 7 voluntary requirements for efficiency rated systems, including: Use demand-initiated regeneration controlled by a flow meter or water hardness sensor. Have a rated salt efficiency ≥ 3,350 grains of total hardness exchanged per pound of salt (NaCl equivalency). Must not include devices that use a clock timer to set regeneration on a fixed time schedule. Must not regenerate using more than 5.0 gallons of water per 1,000 grains or hardness removed during the service cycle.

Indoor Inspection: Water Softeners
Review manufacturer’s product specification sheet or manual to verify that installed water softener has been certified to meet NSF/ANSI 44 Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners, including Section 7. Obtain documentation as part of the inspection records. Check for leaks from all visible connections and valves.

Indoor Inspection: Drinking Water Treatment
If a drinking water treatment system is installed, it must be certified to meet applicable NSF/ANSI standards: NSF/ANSI 42 Drinking Water Treatment Units – Aesthetic Effects NSF/ANSI 53 Drinking Water Treatment Units – Health Effects NSF/ANSI 55 Ultraviolet Microbiological Water Treatment Systems NSF/ANSI 58 Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems NSF/ANSI 62 Drinking Water Distillation Systems Such systems shall yield at least 85 gallons of treated water for each 100 gallons of water processed (i.e., it shall have an efficiency rating equal to or greater than 85%).

Indoor Inspection: Drinking Water Treatment
Review manufacturer’s product literature to verify that the installed drinking water treatment system meets applicable NSF/ANSI standards and has a minimum efficiency rating of 85%. Obtain documentation as part of the inspection records. Check for leaks from all visible connections and valves.

Indoor Inspection: Metering (Multi-Family Only)*
In multi-family buildings, each unit must be individually metered, submetered, or equipped with an alternate technology capable of tracking water use and making the information available to the residents of the individual unit. Inspection: Verify that each unit is individually metered, submetered, or equipped with an alternate technology that can track and provide water use information to the unit residents. Alternate technologies might include flow sensors or end use meters on major water using appliances, from which data are collected in a central location and summarized on a unit by unit basis.

Outdoor Inspection: General*
Residential units in multi-family buildings will only be eligible for the WaterSense label if all common-use outdoor areas meet the outdoor water-efficiency criteria.

Outdoor Inspection: Landscape Design*
For single-family homes, landscape design criteria apply to the front yard and all other areas improved upon by the builder. For multi-family homes, landscape design criteria apply to common-use areas intended or made available for residents’ use and all areas improved upon by the builder. Areas improved upon by the builder include: Areas with vegetation beyond temporary stabilization measures. Irrigation systems. Permeable hardscape or softscape features. Pools, spas, or other water features (for single-family only).

Design of the landscaped area shall be developed using the WaterSense Water Budget Tool. Lots with landscapable areas less than 1,000 ft2 are exempt from this criteria. The definition for landscaped area is: "The designed area of the landscape excluding the footprint of the home and permanent hardscape areas, such as driveways, sidewalks, and patios. Septic drainage fields and public right-of-ways should also be excluded from this calculation."

Outdoor Inspection: Landscape Design
Water budget background: A water budget is a site-specific method of calculating an allowable amount of water for the landscape and then designing the landscape to meet this budget. Takes into account plant type, water needs, irrigation system design, and water applied to landscape either by irrigation or precipitation. The WaterSense Water Budget Tool guides the user through the water budget calculation in three parts: Calculates the baseline and allowance for the specific site based on historic climate patterns. Calculates how much water the designed landscape theoretically requires based on climate, plant type, and irrigation system design. Determines whether the designed landscape meets EPA’s criteria. The water budget tool and guidance are available on the WaterSense Web site.

Determine the portions of the landscape to which the criteria apply: For single-family homes: Includes the front yard and all other areas improved upon by the builder. Excludes the footprint of the home, permanent hardscapes (driveways, sidewalks, and patios), septic drainage fields, and public right-of-ways. For multi-family homes: Includes areas improved upon by the builder and intended or made available for the use of building residents, including areas with vegetation beyond temporary stabilization measures, irrigation systems, permeable hardscape or softscape features. Excludes private-use areas (e.g., areas deeded, identified as limited- use common elements, or otherwise restricted by building management) and common-use pools, spas, and water features. ETo is local reference evapotranspiration

For applicable portions of the landscape, measure or obtain documentation to determine the total landscaped area. For single-family homes, measure and include the surface area of any pools, spas, and water features installed. For multi-family homes, do not count the area of any common-use pools, spas, or other areas for private resident use. Obtain a copy of the Water Budget Tool Report from the builder.

On the Water Budget Tool Report: Compare the landscaped area reported to the measured area. Verify that the plant types/landscape features listed in Summary of Hydrozones (e.g., trees, shrubs) are installed. For multi-family homes, make sure that any pools, spas, or other water features are not included (they do not count towards the landscaped area). Measure and verify the area (ft2) for each plant type/landscape features listed. Verify the water demand (low, medium, high) for each plant type/landscape feature. Verify that the irrigation type (if applicable) is correct for each plant type. Verify that the landscape meets the requirements such that the landscape water requirement is less than the landscape water allowance.

Gray – house Blue – pool Brownish – trees, shrubs, other landscaping Green - turf

Temporary landscapes (e.g., straw over bare soil) may be installed if permanent landscapes cannot be installed due to climate conditions or because occupancy of units in multi- family buildings occurs before common- area landscapes are installed. Homes with temporary landscapes can be inspected for compliance with the indoor criteria and may be sold or occupied before permanent landscape is installed. The WaterSense label may not be issued until the permanent landscape is installed, inspected, and certified. Criteria that apply regardless of which option is chosen. Inspection: Inspect indoor criteria and address any non-conformities. Once permanent landscape is installed, inspect landscape and notify licensed certification provider to provide builder with label certificate.

Slopes in excess of 4 feet horizontal run per 1 foot vertical rise (4:1) shall be vegetated. All exposed soil shall be covered with a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulching material. Inspection: Use a laser level or clinometer to determine areas where the slope exceeds 25% or 14o. Verify that these slopes are planted. Verify that all mulched areas are between 2 and 3 inches deep. Applies to both options.

Outdoor Inspection: Slopes and Mulching
These are types of tools you can use to determine the slope of the landscape. The small, square metal clinometer is pretty common. It had a little hole to look through on one side; the slope was displayed next to the outer view. You can also use laser levels. If a landscaping professional is on site, they can help if you haven’t measured slope before.

Outdoor Inspection: Pools/Spas*
For single-family homes, all pools and spa must have a cover. For multi-family homes, common-use pools and spas must: Be independently metered so that water use can be tracked and leaks readily identified. Be equipped with a gutter or grate system to catch splashes and drag-outs. Be equipped with either sorptive media or cartridge filtration.

Outdoor Inspection: Pools/Spas*
For single family home, verify that the pool/spa has a cover. For multi-family homes, verify: The pool or spa has an independent meter. The pool or spa has a gutter or grate system to catch splashes and drag-outs. That the pool/spa filtration system uses either sorptive media or cartridge filtration and obtain documentation.

Outdoor Inspection: Water Features
If ornamental water features are installed, they must recirculate water and serve a beneficial use. Water features include fountains, ponds, waterfalls, man-made streams, or other decorative water-related constructions. Examples of beneficial uses: Habitat for wildlife Stormwater management Cooling properties Blocking of road noise Calming effect Aesthetic properties Entertainment Auditory stimulation Air purification Education Source of reflected lighting into the house Inspection: Verify through documentation from the builder that the water feature recirculates water and has a beneficial use. (e.g., habitat for wildlife, stormwater management, cooling properties).

Outdoor Inspection: Irrigation System (Optional)
If an irrigation system is financed, installed, or sold through the builder: It must be designed or installed by a WaterSense irrigation partner unless the builder obtains a waiver because there were insufficient irrigation partners available. It must be audited by a WaterSense irrigation partner unless the builder obtains a waiver because there were insufficient irrigation partners available. If you, an inspector, or a client believes a waiver is appropriate and necessary please contact the WaterSense helpline. Note, that if a waiver is granted all equipment and performance requirements still apply. A professional certified by a WaterSense labeled program is not required to perform the work however.

Post-installation audit requirements: There shall be no detectable leaks during system operation. There shall be no runoff or direct overspray during operation. The system shall achieve a lower quarter distribution uniformity of 65% or greater measured on the largest spray- irrigated area. The system shall be equipped with technology that inhibits or interrupts irrigation during periods of rainfall or sufficient moisture (e.g., rain or soil moisture sensors).

Outdoor Inspection: Irrigation System (Optional)*
Irrigation controller requirements: Prior to June 1, 2013, irrigation systems shall be equipped with a weather-based or soil moisture sensor-based controller that contains specific features outlined in Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification. As of June 1, 2013, irrigation systems shall be equipped with a WaterSense labeled weather-based irrigation controller or a soil moisture sensor-based irrigation controller that contains the specific features outlined in Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification.

Sprinkler and micro-irrigation system requirements: Sprinklers are permitted on turfgrass only. Sprinklers must have 4-inch or greater pop-up height and matched precipitation nozzles. Sprinklers shall not be used on slopes greater than 4:1 or strips of turfgrass less than 4 feet wide. Micro-irrigation systems shall be equipped with pressure regulators, filters, and flush end assemblies. Scheduling requirements: The system must have two watering schedules programmed by the WaterSense irrigation partner posted at the controller. Schedules shall be seasonal and include a schedule for the initial grow-in phase and a schedule for the established landscape.

Confirm the system was designed or installed and audited by a WaterSense irrigation partner or obtain proof of a waiver from the requirement(s). Check the WaterSense partner list to verify partnership of the professional: If the system was audited, obtain from the builder a copy of the Version 1.1 WaterSense Labeled New Home Irrigation Audit Checklist completed by the WaterSense irrigation partner. Verify that the checklist is complete and that all the components used in the irrigation system meet the minimum criteria. If there are fewer than 3 available WaterSense irrigation partners who are certified designers and fewer than 3 available WaterSense irrigation partners who are certified installation/maintenance professionals that provide services to the city, county, or metropolitan area where the home is located, an exemption from criterion may apply. If there are no available irrigation partners who are certified auditors that provide services to the city, county, or metropolitan area where the home is located, an exemption from criterion may apply.

WaterSense Irrigation Partner List

Irrigation system audit: The licensed certification provider OR the builder can contract with the WaterSense irrigation partner to conduct the irrigation system audit. EPA always reserves the right to conduct spot checks of the inspection, including the irrigation system audit. If problems arise with the irrigation audit or the WaterSense irrigation partner that conducted the audit, notify EPA. EPA reserves the right to engage the WaterSense irrigation partner in corrective action, including revoking their partnership agreement. This slide is designed to assure that providers that they can take as much or little control over the irrigation audit as they feel is necessary and that EPA also has mechanisms to check the auditor’s work or institute corrective actions, as necessary.

Irrigation Audit Checklist
This is a screenshot of the irrigation audit checklist. The inspector simply needs to obtain a copy of this form from the builder, verify that the auditor is a current WaterSense partner, and verify that the inspection is complete and that the system meets the specification’s requirements.

Outdoor Inspection: Metering*
If an irrigation system is installed in a multi-family building, the system shall be independently metered, submetered, or equipped with alternate technology capable of tracking water use for outdoor irrigation. Inspection: Verify that the irrigation system associated with the multi- family building is independently metered, submetered or equipped with alternate technology capable of tracking irrigation water use.

Homeowner Education: Single-Family Homes
Builder must provide homeowner with an operating manual or chapter for all water-using equipment and controls installed in the house and yard, including: WaterSense materials on efficient water use. If clothes washers or dishwaters are not provided, general information about water-efficient appliances. If an irrigation system is installed: A record drawing (schematic) of the system. Itemized list of irrigation components. Copies of the irrigation schedules. Information about adjusting the schedule after establishing the landscaping.

Homeowner Education: Single-Family Homes
Inspection: Verify that the Homeowner Operating Manual includes information on: Pressure regulating valves (if applicable) Hot water delivery system Toilets Faucets Showerheads General information on water-efficient dishwashers and clothes washers if they are not installed If installed: Dishwashers Clothes washers Evaporative cooling systems Water softeners Drinking water treatment systems For installed irrigation systems: Record drawing of the system Itemized list of irrigation system components Copies of the irrigation schedules Information about adjusting the schedule

Homeowner/Resident Education: Multi-Family Homes*
Builder must provide the occupant of each labeled unit an occupant manual or chapter for all water-using equipment or controls installed in the unit, including: Relevant WaterSense materials on indoor water use. If clothes washers or dishwaters are not provided, but hookups are present, general information about water- efficient appliances. Relevant information on water-saving features of the building outside the unit (e.g., landscape, pools, laundry facilities).

Inspection: Verify that the Occupant Operating Manual includes information on: Pressure regulating valves (if applicable) Hot water delivery system Toilets Faucets Showerheads General information on water efficient dishwashers and clothes washers if they are not installed If installed: Dishwashers Clothes washers Evaporative cooling systems Water softeners Drinking water treatment systems Relevant information on water-savings features outside the unit Landscape Pools Laundry facilities

Builder must also provide to the building management an operating and maintenance manual for all water-using equipment or controls outside of the units or inside of the units if maintained by building management. If an irrigation system is installed, the manual must include: A record drawing (schematic) of the system Itemized list of irrigation components Copies of the irrigation schedules Information about adjusting the schedule after establishing the landscaping If pools/spas are present, the manual must include information regarding filtration equipment, manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, and information for monitoring for leaks.

Inspection: Verify that the Building Operating Manual includes information on: Pressure regulating valve(s), if applicable Hot water delivery system(s) Toilets Faucets Showerheads Dishwasher(s) Clothes washer(s) Evaporative cooling system Water softener(s) Drinking water treatment system(s) For installed irrigation systems: Record drawing of the system Itemized list of irrigation system components Copies of the irrigation schedules Information about adjusting the schedule For common-use pools, spas, or water features: Information about filtration equipment Manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule Information about monitoring for leaks

Inspection Wrap-Up At the end of the inspection:
Fill in the time the inspection was completed. Sign the inspection checklist. Provide a copy of the inspection checklist to the builder. Submit the completed inspection checklist, required documentation, and digital photograph to the licensed certification provider. If the licensed certification provider certifies the new home, sign the certificate and return it to the to the licensed certification provider for distribution to the builder. Digital or stamped signatures may be used.

Inspection Tools* Inspection and Verification Guidance and Inspection Checklist Lists the specification requirements Provides step by step inspection instructions for each element Provides a template for documenting whether each requirement is met Indicates which elements require documentation Guidelines for Irrigation Audits and Irrigation Audit Checklist Provides guidance and documentation criteria that the WaterSense irrigation partner uses when inspecting an irrigation system Sampling protocol information for single and multi-family homes Provides an inspection checklists for documenting homes covered by a sampling protocol These tools are available on the WaterSense Web site.

New Home Inspection Questions/Discussion?

Quality Assurance and Wrap-Up
Module 5: Quality Assurance and Wrap-Up

Inspector Quality Assurance
The licensed certification provider will: Re-inspect/co-inspect each inspector’s first 3 probationary inspections. Annually re-inspect/co-inspect 1 home or 1% of the homes each inspector inspects, whichever is greater. Annually review 10% of each inspector’s files.

Handling Nonconformities
The licensed certification provider is responsible for notifying EPA of any nonconformities including: Failure of a certified home to pass a re-inspection where simple corrective action did not resolve the issue. Receipt of formal complaints that a WaterSense labeled home misrepresents its water-efficiency performance. Instances where the builder is fraudulently or falsely claiming that its homes have been certified and labeled.

Handling Nonconformities
EPA is responsible for engaging the builder in corrective action beyond what the licensed certification provider can work with the builder to correct. EPA will determine when the future use of the WaterSense label by that builder should be suspended or withdrawn. EPA may also discover nonconformities: From its stakeholders During its own in-home inspections During periodic reviews of certification and label usage If EPA discovers an issue, it will notify the licensed certification provider.

Next Steps Completed training requirement in accordance with Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification. Licensed certification provider will provide training documentation and updated inspection materials. You are now eligible to inspect new homes in accordance with Version 1.1 WaterSense New Home Specification.

More Information WaterSense New Homes (Main Page):
WaterSense New Homes Certification System: WaterSense New Homes Technical Materials:

More Information Web site: www.epa.gov/watersense
Helpline: (866) WTR-SENS ( )

WaterSense® New Homes Inspector Training Version 1.1 [Date]

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WaterSense® New Homes Inspector Training Version 1.1 [Date]

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