Choosing the right energy auditor ensures you get accurate diagnostics and actionable recommendations. This guide covers what to look for and what to ask.
Essential Certifications
BPI (Building Performance Institute) — For Existing Homes
- The industry standard for residential energy assessments
- Includes combustion safety testing (critical for gas homes)
- Multiple specialties available
- Updated 2026 exam requirements ensure current competency
- Verify at bpi.org
RESNET HERS Rater — For New Construction
- Focused on energy ratings and code compliance
- Generates standardized HERS Index score
- Includes duct leakage testing
- Verify at resnet.us
For a detailed comparison, see our BPI vs RESNET guide.
8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring
1. What certifications do you hold?
Only BPI and RESNET are nationally recognized for residential energy auditing. Other certifications (LEED, Energy Star) are valuable but supplementary.
2. What equipment will you use?
A comprehensive audit requires:
- Blower door — measures total air leakage
- Infrared camera — finds hidden heat loss
- Combustion analyzer — tests gas appliance safety
- CO detector — safety check
If an auditor only offers a walkthrough without testing equipment, you are not getting a real audit.
3. What is included in the report?
Look for: air leakage measurement (ACH50), thermal images, prioritized improvement list, cost estimates, savings projections, and information about available rebates.
4. Do you also do improvement work?
Some auditors also perform insulation, air sealing, and HVAC work. This can be convenient but may create a conflict of interest (recommending more work than needed). If the auditor does improvement work, get a second opinion on major recommendations.
5. How many audits have you performed?
Look for at least 50 completed audits. Experienced auditors identify problems faster and provide better recommendations.
6. Are you familiar with local utility rebate programs?
Good auditors know your local incentives and can guide you through rebate applications. This knowledge saves you time and money.
7. What is your turnaround time for the report?
Reports should be delivered within 1-2 weeks. Longer delays suggest the auditor is overbooked or disorganized.
8. Can you provide references?
Ask for 3-5 recent client references. Contact them about the audit experience, report quality, and recommendation accuracy.
Red Flags to Avoid
- No testing equipment: A walkthrough without a blower door is not a real audit
- Push to sell improvements immediately: Good auditors give you a report and let you decide
- No certifications: Avoid auditors without BPI or RESNET credentials
- Unusually low prices: Under $100 for a "comprehensive" audit suggests corners are being cut
- No written report: You should always receive a detailed written report
- One-size-fits-all recommendations: Every home is different; recommendations should be specific to your situation
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find energy auditors near me?
Use the BPI "Find a Pro" tool at bpi.org, the RESNET "Find a Rater" tool at resnet.us, or check your utility company's list of participating auditors. See our regional guides for New York, California, and Texas.
How much should I pay for a good energy audit?
Expect $200-$600 for a comprehensive Level 2 audit with blower door testing and thermal imaging. Check your utility for free or subsidized options first. See our audit cost guide.
Can I get a free energy audit?
Many utilities offer free or subsidized assessments. Programs include NYSERDA (NY), Mass Save (MA), Energy Trust of Oregon, and many more. Contact your utility before paying privately.
Is a DIY energy audit sufficient?
A DIY assessment can identify obvious issues but cannot measure air leakage, detect hidden heat loss, or test combustion safety. Professional audits with testing equipment provide dramatically more useful information.
Should the auditor also do the improvement work?
It depends. A combined audit-and-improvement company offers convenience and may discount the audit. However, an independent auditor has no financial incentive to over-recommend work. For major improvements (over $3,000), get a second opinion regardless.
-- The Energy Audit Finder Team