Answer:

You can think of a certified rater in much the same way as you might think of a master mechanic. We all understand that a car is a dynamic system of interdependent parts. If a car begins to get fewer miles per gallon, we don’t take it to a parts store. We take it to a qualified mechanic to diagnose the problem and let us know our options. Only then we can decide what to do - based upon necessity, our personal needs and our budget.

A home is also a dynamic system of interdependent parts that should be tested and diagnosed prior to deciding how to make it perform to the highest level possible give our budget. This diagnosis is most effectively done by a HERS or BPI Certified Rater.

A Home Energy Audit is the first thing that a building owner should do if they are planning on doing energy efficiency upgrades or any type of renovation. A HERS or BPI certified rater is trained to do this – architects, designers and general contractors are not. Only certified auditors are recognized by Energy Star, Earthcraft Virginia or LEED. Many incentives both present and in the near future, are reliant upon certified raters as third party verifiers. Getting them involved in the first phase of any project assures the homeowner that critical problems are identified, opportunities are recognized, and that the most cost effective solutions can be applied.

A Home Energy Audit will most often include a thorough visual inspection, blower door test, infrared inspection and duct blaster test. Other types of testing procedures may also be used, depending upon the characteristics of the particular home. Scope of work for the audit is determined in advance after review of a pre-assessment questionnaire completed by the building owner, and modified where required during the actual assessment process. Data from the assessment provides inputs for a computer software modeling program which can be used to compare the building performance against standards that are accepted by Energy Star and local building codes. Photos will document work and be used for visual analysis after the assessment. Then, using the computer model and other information, the certified auditor will explain findings and recommendations to the owner. If desired, a written report can be provided, which will contain a detailed record of the process and results. Costs are generally between $500 to $1000, depending upon the size and complexity of the home.

This information will be of great value to the architect/designer and general contractor. It helps to define the scope of work and guide decisions, as well as to reveal items that would otherwise be hidden until renovations begin, which can lead to costly change orders and additional services. If possible, it is a great benefit to the building owner to have the architect and general contractor present at a post-assessment meeting to discuss problems, opportunities and solutions with the certified auditor to identify the best strategy for articulating and meeting the owner’s goals.

A HERS or BPI-certified auditor can also provide verification of performance and installation for use in getting a home certified under Energy Star or Earthcraft Virginia’s Renovation programs, based upon their regulations, and may include assessments of other home performance aspects such as water, materials and site development. – Monica Rokicki-Guajardo