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  • How can I tell if my home uses too much energy?

    Learn more about what makes a home energy-efficient [2.56MB PDF] with Natural Resources Canada. According to Natural Resources Canada’s 2015 Survey of Household Energy Use (SHEU-2015), a single detached home in British Columbia consumes 106.3 gigajoules (GJ) of energy per year on average. However, this number can vary depending on a number of factors, such…

  • What resources are available for DIY home energy improvements?

    Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Natural Resources Canada BC Housing BC Hydro FortisBC Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.

  • What if I’m not satisfied with my contractor’s service?

    If you are not satisfied with the service that your contractor has provided, there are a few actions that you can take: Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.

  • What should be included in my written contract with a contractor?

    When hiring a contractor for a larger home renovation, it’s important to get everything in writing. The Canadian Home Builders’ Association recommends that your written contract should include the following: Fill in any blank spaces on the contract with N/A (not applicable), strike out anything you don’t agree with, and make sure that you and…

  • How do I protect myself against fraud and deception?

    For more information on fraud and deception, visit Natural Resources Canada’s Consumer Caution webpage. Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.

  • How do I locate someone to remove my oil tank safely?

    Oil tanks can represent a hazard to the local environment and a significant financial liability for you if they leak or spill. Cleanup costs for oil tank leaks are the responsibility of the homeowner, and your private home insurance likely does not cover these costs. Check with your local government whether they require you to…

  • How are insulation rebates calculated?

    The CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program requires the following information to calculate your rebate: The R-value that you have added is multiplied by the square feet covered, and then by a specific dollar amount that differs for each area of your home, as indicated in the table below. Location Installed Minimum R-Value Added…

  • Am I required to have an EnerGuide home evaluation in order to apply for rebates?

    Some rebate programs require an EnerGuide home evaluation prior to completing upgrades and after upgrades are completed. Other programs recommend but do not require an EnerGuide home evaluation. Be sure to find out before you start your renovations if you need an energy evaluation. Visit our rebate search tool for program details or click here to…

  • Which upgrades typically have the fastest payback period?

    When thinking about the payback period for your upgrades, the simple payback is one of the easiest way to look at your investment. Simple payback is the length of time it takes to recoup the initial investment of the energy upgrade. The basic formula for calculating payback period is: Payback period (in years) = cost…

  • What home energy improvement resources are available for owners of heritage or character homes?

    Vancouver Heritage Foundation: Heritage BC: Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.