-RATED BY
Built in Canada
All Ecoline windows and doors are built in Ontario, Canada
- Top-of-the-line machinery (Forel, Gracco, Bottero) to produce the best products
- Over 60,000 sq. ft manufacturing plant
- Energy Star-rated and NAFS-11-tested
- Manufactured for local weather conditions
How to Select a Good Energy Auditor in Canada [Full Guide]
Mar 13, 2025
Mar 13, 2025
6 min read
18
Did you know that the average Canadian home wastes up to 25% of its energy due to air leaks, poor insulation, and outdated heating systems? And with heating making up around 63.7% of all energy use for the average Canadian home, improving energy efficiency isn’t just good for the environment—it’s essential for lowering utility bills.
That’s where a home energy audit comes in. A professional energy assessment can reveal hidden inefficiencies, helping homeowners qualify for government rebates and make informed decisions about energy home upgrades.
However, not all energy auditors offer the same level of expertise. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between unlocking thousands in rebates and doing the right energy upgrades or missing out due to an incomplete or inaccurate report.
So, how can homeowners find a certified energy auditor who will deliver reliable results? Let’s break it down.
Why Hiring a Home Energy Auditor?
An energy auditor plays a crucial role in assessing your home’s overall efficiency. Their job goes beyond a quick walkthrough—they conduct a detailed energy assessment using specialized tools like thermal imaging cameras, blower door tests, and infrared thermometers to detect hidden air leaks, poor insulation, and inefficient heating or cooling systems. In Canada, a registered energy advisor evaluates key areas of a home, such as:
- windows and doors
- walls
- attics
- basements
- ventilation
- heating and cooling systems, etc
After the inspection, they provide an EnerGuide rating, a standardized efficiency score recognized nationwide. This report outlines where energy is lost and offers recommendations for improving performance.
For homeowners applying for an energy efficiency program or government rebates and loans like the Canada Greener Homes Loan, a pre-and post-retrofit energy audit is often a must-have requirement.
4 Factors to Consider When Selecting an Energy Auditor
Finding a reliable certified energy auditor requires more than just a quick Google search. Before booking an assessment, homeowners should look for specific credentials, experience, and transparency. Here are the top things to consider before giving them a call:
1. Certification and Accreditation
A professional energy consultant should be licensed by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and recognized by provincial energy efficiency programs. Look for auditors with an official energy auditor certification, as only certified professionals can conduct assessments for rebate federal and provincial rebate programs.
2. Experience and Knowledge
A skilled energy advisor understands different home types, climate challenges, and the latest building codes. A local auditor with years of experience will provide better insights than someone new to the field.
3. Reputation and Reviews
Check reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or provincial energy websites. A well-reviewed registered energy advisor is more likely to provide reliable, high-quality assessments.
4. Transparent Pricing
A legitimate home energy audit should have clear pricing with no hidden fees. Be cautious of auditors who charge significantly lower or higher the median price. The average price range of a home energy evaluation in Canada is $300 – $600.
Remember that you will likely need 2 energy audits before and after the retrofits if you want to qualify for the local rebates. The good news is that government rebates and loans often reimburse the cost of the audits after the energy-efficient renovations are completed.
Choosing the right auditor ensures a comprehensive and accurate energy assessment, leading to better home efficiency and potential savings.
4 Common Red Flags to Watch Out For When Hiring An Energy Auditor
Not all energy auditors operate with the same level of professionalism. Some lack proper certification, while others provide incomplete or biased assessments. Homeowners should be cautious of these red flags when selecting an energy consultant:
1. Lack of Certification
A certified energy auditor must be registered with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) or a recognized provincial program. If an auditor can’t provide proof of certification, they may not be qualified to conduct an official home energy audit.
2. Pushy Sales Tactics
Some auditors work closely with specific contractors and might pressure homeowners into purchasing unnecessary upgrades. A registered energy advisor should provide an unbiased energy assessment, not a sales pitch.
3. Rushed or Superficial Assessments
A thorough audit takes time—typically two to three hours for an average home. That’s because it’s essential to check all potential areas for energy loss. A common red flag is an auditor who rushes through the process and skips inspecting some windows or certain rooms entirely. Since windows are a major source of heat loss, failing to assess all of them properly can lead to an incomplete report and missed opportunities for efficiency upgrades.
4. No Follow-Up or Missing Reports
After an assessment, a homeowner should receive a detailed energy efficiency report and an EnerGuide rating. If an auditor delays or fails to provide this documentation, it could mean they’re unqualified or unreliable.
Avoiding these pitfalls ensures homeowners receive an accurate, unbiased energy audit that helps them qualify for rebates and improve home efficiency.
Wrapping Up
A home energy audit is more than just a checklist—it’s a roadmap to a more efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective home. Choosing the right energy auditor ensures homeowners get an accurate assessment, qualify for valuable energy-saving programs, and make informed upgrade decisions.
Acting on the recommendations can lead to lower energy bills, a reduced carbon footprint, and a home that stays warm in winter and cool in summer.
Finding a registered energy advisor should be your first step if you’re planning energy-efficient upgrades. A thorough energy assessment can unlock rebates, boost home value, and make every dollar spent on efficiency improvements count.
