Frequently Asked Questions
Does R-2000 use a specific design?
NO. Virtually any house can be built to meet the R-2000 Standard. It is a method of building not a design.
Do you need to be a journeyman carpenter to be an R-2000 Builder?
NO. Any builder who can demonstrate experience in the field an understanding of "House as a System" and who has taken an R-2000 builder workshop and passed with 75% or greater can build and certify their first R-2000 house in order to receive their R-2000 license.
Is R-2000 new technology?
NO. R-2000 has been around for decades. It uses proven technologies and products.
Can any builder claim to build R-2000?
NO. Only licensed R-2000 builders can build and advertise to build R-2000 homes. Only NRCan can certify a house as R-2000. You can not rely on imitations.
Do R-2000 homes assist in the reduction of green house gases which contribute to global warming?
YES. R-2000 homes provide a model for environmentally responsible houses.
What is the House as a System?
House as a System takes into account the relationship between all components of a house and how they must work together to be a success, i.e. the building envelope in relation to the mechanical system and so on
Will an R-2000 House save me money?
YES. R-2000 homes use a minimum of 30%-40% less energy than the typical new home.
Are R-2000 Houses more expensive to build?
NO. R-2000 homes use any conventional materials and equipment. The difference is in the attention to the construction detail.
Can a R-2000 home help improve my health?
YES. R-2000 homes take a systematic approach to improve indoor air quality. Better building practices, choice of finishes and balanced mechanical systems discourage mould growth.
How long does an R-2000 builder have to complete his 1st home?
A builder has 2 years to complete and certify his demonstration home and needs to build one R-2000 home every three years to hold his license.
How do the extra R-2000 inspections and tests differ from those done by my building inspector?
Building Inspectors enforce local and national building code requirements for health and safety which specify minimum standards. R-2000 inspections are an additional requirement to ensure that the R-2000 standard and energy targets have been met for certification.
Can anyone install the mechanical ventilating system in an R-2000 home?
NO. Ventilation equipment must be installed and balanced by an HRAI certified installer.
Do my sub-trades need to be R-2000 licensed?
NO. Plumbers, electricians, labourers, finishers, etc. are not required to hold an R-2000 license. It is however to their benefit to attend an R-2000 Builders workshop to better understand the importance of "House as a System".
How much does it cost to attend an R-2000 Builders Workshop?
TheOntario First Nations Technical Services is offering this workshop to their clients for a fee of $200/participant. The cost of the workshops has been subsidized by CMHC so they can offer it at this price. The registration fee covers such items as reference material, venue, refreshments and lunches, planning and administration of workshops, and the certification process. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.
Are there other R-2000 Courses available?
YES.The OFNTSC also offers to their clients the following workshops:
R-2000 Plan Evaluator
R-2000 Inspection and Airtight Tester
Is follow-up work required after the workshops before a license is issued?
YES.In each circumstance there is a mentoring process where the trainee must work with a licensed Plan Evaluator, Inspector and/or Airtight Tester prior to licensing.
Are any other courses required to become an R-2000 Professional?
YES.An additional requirement to becoming a licensed R-2000 Plan Evaluator, Inspector or Airtight Tester is to attend and pass the Mechanical Ventilation Installation course offered by the Heating Refrigeration, Air-conditioning, Institute (HRAI). An individual who has completed everything is considered an R-2000 Full Service Professional.
™ R-2000 and the R-2000 graphic identifier are official trademarks of Natural Resources Canada. Used with permission.
More Information about R2000
CHBA R2000 Website - www.r2000.chba.ca