Contractors
LOCATING TRUSTED HOME ENERGY PROFESSIONALS
Investing in energy efficiency is a smart move for homeowners and renters. However, finding the right professionals can be challenging. This guidance is intended to help Navigators assist customers in demystifying the process, whether they are looking for solar installers, energy auditors, or contractors for construction, electrical or plumbing upgrades.
Identifying established, accredited professionals helps guarantee quality and protects against scams and unqualified contractors. Scams can cause significant harm to consumers, and even when their intent is not fraudulent, inexperienced contractors may make mistakes that undermine the quality, experience, and cost of energy upgrades. Both scams and inexperienced contractors are a threat not only to individual consumers but to the reputation of the industry as a whole.
General Resources for Locating Energy Contractors and Energy Auditors
| General Resources | |
|---|---|
| Online Directories and Tools for Contractors and Energy Auditors | • ENERGY STAR's contractor locator is specifically for identifying contractors participating in the ENERGY STAR program. • Building Performance Institute's (BPI) locator tool locates certified professionals specializing in building performance and energy efficiency audits. • Residential Energy Services Network’s (RESNET) directory of certified Home Energy Raters identifies professionals who can conduct audits and provide ratings. • North America Board of Certified Energy Provider's (NABCEP) identifies certified installers for solar professionals. |
| Local Utility Companies | • Many utility companies maintain lists of approved contractors. • Some offer energy audit services or recommendations. |
| State Energy Offices | Have state-specific resources and lists of certified contractors. |
| Home Improvement Stores | Big box and local stores may partner with local contractors to provide installation services. |
| Online Marketplaces and Review Sites | Angi, HomeAdvisor, Yelp |
| Word of Mouth and Local Community | • Neighborhood associations, sustainability groups • Online community forums (Nextdoor, Facebook groups) |
| Local Government Resources | • City/County Sustainability Offices may have lists. • Some municipalities run their own programs. |
| Local Trade Schools or Community Colleges | May have job boards or alumni networks of certified professionals. |
Who Certifies Energy Contractors and Energy Auditors?
The table in Appendix F shows certifying organizations specializing in home efficiency and performance training and certification. Some, like BPI and RESNET, take a more comprehensive approach to home energy efficiency. Others, like North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and Air Conditioning Contractors of America ACCA, focus specifically on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
When choosing a contractor, consider which certifications are most relevant to the project. For example, if a consumer is primarily interested in improving a home’s insulation, a contractor certified by the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA) might be relevant. Someone with BPI or RESNET certifications could be more appropriate for a whole-home energy retrofit.
General Steps in the Home Improvement Contracting Process
Step Action Details
1 Assess Your Needs • Identify areas for improvement
• Consider budget and energy-saving goals
2 Research and Education • Learn about potential improvements and benefits
• Understand relevant certifications / licensing
3 Find and Vet Contractors • Use resources to list potential contractor
• Verify certifications / licensing
• Check reviews and contact references
4 Get Energy Audits • Request audits from 2-3 certified professionals
• Identify cost-effective improvements
5 Collect and Compare Quotes • Get detailed, written estimates from at least three contractors
• Ensure quotes cover the same scope
6 Check for Incentives • Research federal, state, and local incentives
• Ask contractors about rebates and application process
7 Verify Credentials and Insurance • Double-check licenses, insurance, and bonding
• Confirm they’ll obtain necessary permits
8 Plan the Project • Discuss timeline and potential disruptions
• Discuss payment terms and schedule
9 Get It in Writing • Ensure all details are in a written contract
• Include specifics about materials, timeline, payment, and warranties
10 Prepare for the Work • Clear areas where work will be done
• Make arrangements for pets or sensitive item
11 Monitor Progress • Stay involved during the project
• Address concerns promptly with the contractor
12 Final Inspection and Testing • Ensure all work passes required inspections
• Consider a follow-up energy audit
13 Maintain Improvements • Follow maintenance recommendations
• Monitor energy bills to track savings