Will your house comply with new Austin Energy ordinance?

HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: In February of 2007 the City of Austin passed the Climate Protection Plan with the goal of increasing energy efficiency throughout the city. As a result, the Energy Efficiency Ordinance was passed in November of 2008.

What is required?
Under the Energy Efficiency Ordinance, owners of homes that lie within the Austin city limits and are serviced by Austin Energy are required to obtain an energy audit prior to selling their homes. Audit findings are then to be disclosed to prospective buyers.

When does the ordinance go into effect?
The Energy Efficiency Ordinance is effective June 1, 2009.

How do I comply?
The energy audit must be completed and disclosed before the home sale closes. We are recommending that homeowner’s interested in selling have their homes audited before they list their home for sale to prevent a last minute scramble to comply with the ordinance. The audit will also point out repairs to increase your home’s energy efficiency that will help your home sell more quickly.

Are there any exceptions?
Yes, the main exception is for properties fewer than 10 years old at the time sale. There are a number of other exceptions that you can find in the Austin Energy link below.

What will the Auditor inspect?
· Inspect and measure the attic insulation in various locations
· Pressure test the duct system and assesses it’s condition
· Examine heating and cooling equipment
· Inspect weather stripping around exterior doors, plumbing penetrations, beneath sinks, and air tightness of attic entries
· Identify and measure the amount of glass in windows that receive more than one hour of direct sunlight each day
Information provided by Austin Energy http://budurl.com/newaustinenergy.

To learn more and to find an approved auditor, visit Austin Energy at the link below: http://budurl.com/energycompliance or give us a call at (512) 497-9252 and we will be glad to answer any questions that you may have.