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The Thermal Bypass Checklist is a comprehensive visual inspection of building details where thermal bypass, or the movement of heat around or through insulation, frequently occurs due to missing air barriers or gaps between the air barriers and the insulation. For a home to be qualified as ENERGY STAR, a Thermal Bypass Checklist must be completed by a certified Home Energy Rater. However, up to six items may be verified by the builder to minimize required field trips by the rater.

Update: EPA has cancelled the pending requirement that insulation in floors between conditioned and exterior spaces be aligned with both the top- and bottom-side air barriers (originally slated slate to take effect July 1, 2008). However, the requirement that insulation in these cavities be aligned with the top-side air barrier remains in force. EPA has also incorporated additional guidance in the TBC to ensure top-side alignment.