TR-8 Fenestration Areas

1RCNY IA5
Dimensions of windows, doors and skylights shall be verified by visual inspection.

1RCNY IIA5
Dimensions of windows, doors and skylights shall be verified by visual inspection.

What Is Fenestration Area Compliance in NYC Construction?
 
Fenestration area compliance is a required component of New York City's Energy Conservation Code (ECC) inspection process, and it applies to most new residential and mixed-use construction projects in the five boroughs. Under 1RCNY §IA5 and §IIA5, the physical dimensions of all installed windows, exterior doors, and skylights must be measured and verified against the approved construction drawings during a TR-8 energy inspection.
This requirement exists because the total glazed area of a building — expressed as a percentage of the gross wall area — directly affects how much heat is gained or lost through the building envelope. Oversized fenestration increases thermal loads, while undersized openings may not meet ventilation or natural light minimums. Both conditions can result in a failed inspection and a DOB stop-work order.
Which buildings are affected? Fenestration area verification is required for:
Class 1 buildings (1- and 2-family homes, townhouses) under 1RCNY IA5
Class 2 buildings (multifamily residential, three stories and above) under 1RCNY IIA5
New construction and gut-renovated buildings subject to full ECC compliance
How EZTR1 Conducts the Inspection Our certified special inspectors verify fenestration dimensions on-site using field measurements cross-referenced against the approved DOB construction drawings. We confirm that the rough opening sizes, installed frame dimensions, and total fenestration area ratios are consistent with the energy compliance documentation submitted to the DOB. All findings are documented in our TR-8 inspection report, which is filed directly with the Department of Buildings.
Ready to schedule your TR-8 fenestration area inspection? Contact EZTR1 today to confirm compliance before your next DOB inspection milestone.