Which programs require an assessment?
The word “audit” is used loosely. Better Homes Ottawa and the Home Renovation Savings assessment stream use before-and-after home energy assessments. The Energy Affordability Program uses its own free in-home assessment. The main Home Renovation Savings rebate for a space-heating heat pump does not require an EnerGuide assessment.
Home Renovation Savings — space-heating heat pump
NoNo home energy assessment is required for the current heat-pump rebate stream. A participating HVAC contractor and pre-installation approval are still required.
Home Renovation Savings — bundled upgrades
YesAn initial assessment is required before work. Complete at least two qualifying upgrades, then complete a follow-up assessment.
Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program
YesThe City requires pre- and post-retrofit home energy assessments as part of the loan process.
Energy Affordability Program
Program assessmentComprehensive Support includes a free in-home assessment. The program uses the results to determine which no-cost upgrades may be offered.
What happens during an EnerGuide home evaluation?
A registered energy advisor looks at the home as a system—not just the furnace or heat pump. The evaluation usually includes the building envelope, mechanical equipment and a blower-door test.
- The advisor reviews the home from the exterior through the basement, living areas and attic where accessible.
- A blower-door test measures how airtight the home is and helps identify air leakage.
- Insulation, windows, doors, heating, cooling, water heating and ventilation equipment are recorded.
- The home receives an EnerGuide rating and a report showing energy-saving opportunities.
- If the program requires a post-retrofit evaluation, the advisor returns after the upgrades to document the completed work.
How much does a home energy audit cost?
Natural Resources Canada says the combined cost of pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations averages about $600 to $1,000 across Canada. Actual pricing varies by service organization, location and the home, so ask for the local price before booking.
Home Renovation Savings currently provides a $600 rebate toward the initial and follow-up assessments after successful completion of its assessment stream. Better Homes Ottawa also advertises an energy-audit rebate of up to $600 per application, while funding lasts, after successful program completion.
The Energy Affordability Program is different: qualifying Comprehensive Support participants receive the in-home assessment as part of the program at no cost.
Book the assessment before you start work when the program requires it.
For assessment-based programs, do not begin the qualifying upgrades first and assume the audit can be completed afterward. Home Renovation Savings requires the initial assessment before work in its assessment stream, and Better Homes Ottawa tells applicants not to begin work before program approval.
For the standard Home Renovation Savings space-heating heat-pump rebate, the key timing rule is different: use a participating HVAC contractor and receive pre-installation approval before the heat pump is installed.
How do I find a qualified energy advisor?
For an EnerGuide evaluation, book through a service organization registered with Natural Resources Canada. The service organization sends a registered energy advisor and handles the EnerGuide evaluation process.
HeatPumpRebates.ca and AirZone do not schedule or collect requests for EnerGuide audits. If you are using Better Homes Ottawa, follow the program’s application instructions; if you are using the Home Renovation Savings assessment stream, use its approved service-organization route.
What should I have ready?
Your service organization may give you additional instructions. These basics make the visit easier.