Austin ECAD Audit

Check to see if your house or the house you are buying has an ECAD already on file with the City.

Sample ECAD Report

The Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure Ordinance (ECAD) requires that properties within Austin, served by Austin Energy, and over 10yrs of age undergo an energy audit before the sale of the property. ECAD discloses building energy performance and facilitates energy improvements in existing single-family and multi-family homes, as well as commercial buildings ten years old or older.

HVAC

Air conditioning and heating equipment efficiency. Condenser age, furnace/air handler location, and type of fuel consumed i.e. gas or electric.

windows

Direction windows face in reference to direct heat transfer, as well as what type of windowpane, ex: single, double, triple pane.

insulation

Type of insulation present, ex: fiberglass, cellulose, rock wool, spray foam. Also, the amount of insulation, giving the home an R-value.

weatherization

Air infiltration, duct performance, air sealing in plumbing, and weatherstripping.

Let's go over...

Variances

There are a few, so pay close attention to the details. Click each section to learn more. Or simply get in contact with us and we will do everything for you. 🙂

Buyer Plans to Demolish Home

The Seller and Buyer must complete a City of Austin ECAD Variance Application for Demolition with the City of Austin Planning and Development Review Department in which the buyer agrees to file an application for demolition of the home no later than six months after the sale.

If the Buyer fails to file a permit application for demolition of the home within the allotted time, the Buyer must file an ECAD energy audit within 30 days after receiving written notification from the City.

Download the Application for a Residence Demolition variance (pdf)

Buyer Plans to Substantially Remodel Home

The Seller and Buyer must complete a City of Austin ECAD Variance Application for Substantial Remodel with the City of Austin Planning and Development Review Department’s Development Assistance Center. The buyer agrees to file an application for building permit no later than six months after the sale.

A substantial remodel typically means the home has an approved building permit with final inspections for electrical, plumbing, mechanical and energy permits.

When a home meets this requirement, the property is not required to have an ECAD energy audit for 10 years from the year the work passed the final building inspection.

If the Buyer fails to file a building permit application for the home with the City within the allotted time, the Buyer must file an ECAD energy audit within 30 days after receiving written notification from the City.

Download the Application for a Substantial Remodel variance (pdf)

Buyer Qualifies for and Agrees to Participate in Free Home Energy Improvements

The Buyer must qualify and agree to participate in the Austin Energy Weatherization Assistance, or an equivalent Austin Energy program, no later than six months after the sale.

The Buyer must file an ECAD energy audit within 30 days of notification from the City if the Buyer does not qualify for the program or decides not to participate.

Please note that potential participants could be placed on a wait list due to program limits. The variance will remain valid until the work is complete.

Download the Application to participate in the Free Energy Improvements Program (pdf)

The Buyer Must File an Energy Audit if Plans Change

The Buyer must file an ECAD energy audit within 30 days of notification from the City if:

– The Buyer decides not to demolish, remodel, or make improvements to the home
– The Buyer sells the home before work is complete