ICC-ES Evaluation Reports (ESR)

ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is a subsidiary of the International Code Council, the publisher of the International Building Code and International Residential Code. It evaluates building products, materials and systems to help building officials decide whether they comply with codes.

Its main output is the Evaluation Report, usually identified by the prefix ESR followed by a number.

What an evaluation report is

An ESR presents the findings of a technical evaluation of a product. It is mainly used for new and innovative products whose code compliance cannot simply be demonstrated by citing a product standard listed in the code. Each report typically includes:

• product identification and description
• the code sections and acceptance criteria used in the evaluation
• design and installation requirements
• conditions of use and limitations

An optional Supplement Report can add state or local code requirements, such as those of the Florida Building Code, to the base report, giving code officials jurisdiction-specific documentation.

Acceptance criteria

Where codes do not contain a test standard for a product, ICC-ES develops Acceptance Criteria (ACs), which define the tests and evidence required. Proposed criteria are reviewed by an Evaluation Committee. Acceptance criteria exist for many roofing-related products, such as synthetic underlayments, roof coatings and some roof covering types.

Use in roofing

Roofing manufacturers obtain ESRs for products such as:

• synthetic and self-adhered underlayments
• stone-coated steel and other non-traditional roof coverings
• composite or polymer shingles and slates
• roof coatings and spray foam systems

Building officials can accept an ESR as evidence that a product complies with the code, although the final decision rests with the local authority. Contractors are expected to install the product according to the report's conditions.

Other ICC-ES programs

ICC-ES also runs listing and certification programs for plumbing, mechanical and electrical products, environmental product declarations and verification, testing services, and a Florida approval program.

Comparable systems

• In Florida, statewide Florida Product Approval accepts evaluation reports from approved entities.
• In Canada, the National Research Council's Canadian Construction Materials Centre performs a similar role.
• In the UK, BBA Agrément Certificates serve a comparable function.