A FYI, from my experience: I’m seeing an uptick in requests for energy audits. The Inflation Reduction Act has money available to homeowners. Included is a $150 rebate towards the total cost of an energy audit. This time around, cost assistance for the improvements is also part of the legislation. Ten years ago, that was not the case.
My local electric provider has sent me referrals, which seem to be on the rise. At the same time, a County program is being revitalized that has me as their subcontractor. Too bad it lost federal funding about 5 years ago, because now I have to start from scratch for BPI certification. I let my certification expire for lack of demand. Fortunately, there is “workforce enhancement” money available, money I’m taking advantage of for re-certification.
My experience is that Federal funding is essential in order for energy auditing to be a viable endeavor that is worth the time invested in certification. Supposedly the Inflation Reduction Act funding is good for 10 years. Nothing is in full swing right now, but it’s gearing up here and I do see a potential worth the risk.
Something to consider for inspectors looking for other leads and endeavors.
What does this have to do with this discussion? None of this information gets to the government. Reports are confidential between the homeowner and the auditor, thus more confidential than a home inspection (no realtor involved). If what you say is true, we’d better eliminate the appliance component of a home inspection.
There are people who believe that energy use and energy cost in the home are important issues to address. Often, it’s simple economics. Other times, it’s because the client wishes to reduce their carbon footprint.
I’m reporting this information for the benefit of inspectors who are interested in this work. It will probably decline again with a Republican administration, like it did last cycle. As it stands now, it’s probably good for 10 years. Any inspector approaching this work should understand the politics behind the funding, and thus the demand.
If Inspectors feel they can make additional income then by all means do it. However IMO this is looking like no different than when the original energy audit craze occurred. Many will spend $Thousands and we will see them advertise their equipment for sale not long after they buy it.
The entire energy audit program again IMO is window dressing for whoever in Gubberment that chooses to push it. The concept is good and helpful but rarely is it ever properly implemented. Even the Building codes have truly bastardized the concept in how they handle it.
Another business group entering this arena are the insulation specialist contractors. It’s logical for them to have blower door/infra red expertise and certification as a component of their work. That’s the competition to any home inspector considering entering this field.
As a stand alone, the Building Science Principles course, the first step in BPI certification, is a good one to complete for HI - CE, making any inspector more knowledgeable and a better inspector.
