Home Performance Contractor Certifications

Participating AlabamaWISE contractors are required to maintain a Building Analyst certification from the Building Performance Institute or Energy Rater certification from RESNET.

RESNET and BPI certifications identify a home improvement contractor who understands building science and energy use.

These certifications mean your home improvement contractor understands building science principals and will apply systems based solutions for energy related home improvements — heating, air conditioning, HVAC, duct system, insulation and building enclosure — siding, widows, crawlspace, basement, attic.

Both BPI and RESNET establish contractor standards for whole-house analysis to solve home performance problems, maximize energy efficiency and verify carbon monoxide safety. This analysis is also known as a comprehensive energy audit or home performance assessment.

A certified BPI or RESNET home performance expert understands the home as a system of interactive components. The assessment usually includes computer modeling of the home to analyze and prioritize home performance upgrades to the building components and mechanical systems. This certification is in addition to other trade specific training standards such as the Air Conditioner Contractors of America ACCA certification. ACCA contractors use software called Manual J to properly size the heating and cooling equipment and Manual D software for proper design of duct systems.