Freedom Code Compliance
Single Family

Single Family HVAC Changeout

AC, Air Handler, Condenser, Air Conditioning

Last updated: Apr 20, 2026

Section 1

Required Documents

Submit these with your initial project package.

Always required

  • AHRI Certification Sheet
    AHRI performance certification showing matched system ratings for the replacement HVAC equipment

Conditional

  • Survey / Site Plan
    Survey or site plan showing new equipment location
    WhenRequired if HVAC system is being relocated to a new location
  • Sketch or Plans
    Sketch or plans showing new HVAC layout and ductwork modifications
    WhenRequired if HVAC system is being relocated to a new location

Section 2

Plan Review Criteria

What FCC's plans examiner looks for on this project type, by trade. Items are grouped by priority — life-safety first. Building department checks may go further; this is the FCC private provider scope under FL Statute 553.791.

MechanicalAdvisory

AdvisoryPlan review is not required for this scope under FBC 107.3.5. FCC reviews these items only when the building department specifically requires it, or when the client opts in.
  1. #01Energy code complianceCode

    Replacement equipment SEER/HSPF must meet current FBC-E minimums.

    FBC-E R403FBC-E R405
  2. #02Refrigerant, condensate, and electrical disconnectCode

    Standard changeout installation items: refrigerant line set pressurization/brazing, condensate drain primary/secondary, and electrical disconnect at unit.

    FBC-M 307FBC-M 1101NEC 440
  3. #03Plan review applicability (FBC 107.3.5 exemption)Documentation

    Per FBC-B 107.3.5 Exemption #1, plan review is not required for replacing existing equipment such as mechanical units. FCC performs this review only when the building department requires plan review or the client opts in.

    FBC-B 107.3.5
  4. #04Equipment sizingPerformance

    Replacement equipment should be sized to match the load (Manual J) and air-distribution capability (Manual D) of the dwelling, not a nameplate-for-nameplate swap.

    FBC-R M1401.3FBC-M 309

Items marked Advisory are non-blocking. Per FBC 107.3.5, plan review isn't required for these scopes — FCC reviews them when the building department requests it or the client wants the extra set of eyes.

Section 3

Inspection Walkthrough

Inspections are listed in their typical phase order. Your FCC inspector will confirm which apply to your project. Call (772) 222-6679 with questions.

Mechanical

Phase #1

Final Mechanical/HVAC

RequiredTypical Final
  1. System operational testCritical

    Verify HVAC system starts, runs, and produces heated and cooled air

    FBC-M 304.1
  2. Equipment clearancesCritical

    Verify air handler and condenser have required clearances for service

    FBC-M 304.1
  3. Equipment labels and data plates

    Verify equipment nameplates match approved plans for capacity and efficiency

    FBC-M 304.1
  4. Thermostat operation

    Verify thermostat controls heating and cooling modes properly

    FBC-M 304.1