Residential Energy-Efficient Checklist

The Building Design and Performance Program has developed a design and construction checklist to help housing designers and builders take the first steps toward implementing a whole-house design approach and energy-efficient construction practices. A whole-house "systems" approach to design and construction is recognized as the appropriate method of developing energy-efficient and sustainable homes. A systems approach considers the interaction between the site, building envelope, mechanical systems, occupants, and other factors. The systems approach recognizes that features of one component of the house can greatly affect others.

The checklist that has been developed presents simple and clear guidance on energy improvements that can be readily addressed now by most housing providers. It purposely focuses on wood-frame construction and limits itself to mainstream technologies. The checklist address questions often raised by housing program managers, construction foreman, and laborers concerning the important elements in constructing an energy?efficient home. It also addresses the misperceptions that achieving energy efficiency requires higher first costs, skill levels beyond the reach of current workers, or use of new, unfamiliar materials or methods of construction. The checklist has been successfully used in new construction projects (e.g., several Habitat for Humanity builds) as well as in major rehabilitation activities.

The Building Design and Performance Program is also preparing a series of bulletins that provide detailed instructions on how to implement the various elements of the checklist.

Click on the appropriate title below to view or download the 7-page checklist.