(1) There are two types of assessments; clip board and comprehensive whole home assessments. Clip board tests are good at identifying areas that need upgrade by visual inspection and may give your house an overall rating. A comprehensive whole home assessment is a scientific approach using advanced diagnostic testing equipment that pinpoints the energy wasters driving up your home’s energy usage. The home energy assessment should identify priorities of upgrades based on energy savings and cost. Clip board tests are often free and whole home assessments can run in the $200-$400 range.

(2) Ask for a written report that identifies actual savings for each upgrade, and estimated cost for the upgrade as a follow-up.

(3) Install attic baffles to soffit vents, seal or box around recessed can lights, and install bathroom vents. Seal all attic air leaks detected from the blower door test. Weatherstrip all doors and seal windows, as needed.

(4) The Building Performance Institute (BPI) has established standards that are used by the State of California and local utilities in our area for home energy upgrades. Make sure the company you choose is certified by BPI.

(5) Make sure the written assessment includes an evaluation of your existing home, recommended upgrades, a percentage of projected savings for each upgrade and an estimated cost to complete that upgrade. Infra-red camera pictures would be helpful to identify heat loss and heat gain in the envelope of the home.

(6) Verify that the contractor seals all air leaks before adding new insulation. The effectiveness of the insulation will be significantly reduced if the air leaks are not sealed first.

(7) Always verify the workers compensation and liability insurance policy.