Marcel, you’re an MECPI!!:D:D
[size=2]Saving it for a rainy day.** ;-)
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U already have the designation. Just add it to your profile. Nick got the designation trademark for Nachi members.
Justa because I’m the only one using it does not cheapen it or degrade it. I’m only using it here on this MB and would never use it publicly until qualified to do so.
The local gas company here does free energy audits.
That is 100% accurate, and a great idea. Maybe you guys (NACHI) should be working on a new desigination called “Energy Advisor”. A different title would also lend to less confusion, to not only members but also customers. I am not sure if you have done BPI or Resnet yet John, but part of the process involves educating the consumer on how to save energy by making simple life changes and other simple changes, a programable thermostat for example. It would not be difficult to do just that part of the “inspection”, and advise your clients on simple changes like that. Not to mention it wouldn’t take more than an hour to do, and could easily be added on to a current home inspection.
JJ
No body works for free. Often times power companies sub this out to energy auditors and pays them for the service. Yes it is free to the end user, but someone is still getting paid to do the work. It depends on your state and power company as to how it is done. Sometimes in house (no market for you guys), sometimes sub’d (there is a market there).
This is where, once again, a company that has the ability to do the upgrades really shines in this industry. As an example the power companies pays the sub $285 to do the energy audit. The consumer pays nothing. The company that just did the energy audit basically breaks even on the energy audit (wages, time, gas, etc), but now has a lead and their foot in the door with the customer. They advise the customer on what upgrades are the most cost effective for the customer, and what has a fast and good pay back period. They then sell the job and then either do the work or sub it out.
These “green remodel” jobs can get quite large. For example in Hamilton county Ohio (Cinncinnati area) there is a $10,000 kick back for any renewable energy jobs, and 3% below prime loans (up to $50k for 10 years) PLus there is a 30% kick back from the feds right now on renewable energy sources. And yes they do stack. Throw in all the other upgrades; $1500 on insulation, higher R value attic hatch, lighting, etc and the next thing you know the contrator just did a $50k remodel job where the loan amount is less than the savings. Pretty easy sale for a contractor / energy auditor.
JJ