Property Energy Efficiency Audit Checklist
Energy audits identify cost-effective improvements that reduce utility costs, improve tenant comfort, and increase property value. This checklist follows ASHRAE 211 Standard for Commercial Building Energy Audits and RESNET/HERS residential energy assessment protocols.
- Industry: Real Estate & Property Management
- Frequency: Every 3-5 Years or Before Major Renovation
- Estimated Time: 90-120 minutes
- Role: Energy Auditor / Facilities Director
- Total Items: 32
- Compliance: ASHRAE 211 Standard for Commercial Building Energy Audits, RESNET Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating Standards, IECC International Energy Conservation Code, EPA ENERGY STAR Building Benchmarking Requirements, DOE Weatherization Assistance Program Standards
Building Envelope
Assess insulation, air sealing, and thermal performance.
- Attic insulation meets or exceeds IECC climate zone minimum (R-38 to R-60 depending on zone)?
- Wall insulation present - R-13 minimum for wood frame?
- Basement/crawlspace insulated to IECC requirements?
- Air leakage tested with blower door - below 7 ACH50 for post-2000 homes?
- Vapor retarders appropriate for climate zone?
HVAC Efficiency
Assess heating and cooling system efficiency.
- Furnace AFUE rated 90% or higher (80% minimum for replacements)?
- Air conditioning SEER 16 or higher?
- Duct leakage below 4% of system airflow?
- Programmable or smart thermostat in use?
- Heat pump replacement evaluated for heating-dominated climate?
- HVAC systems receiving annual professional maintenance?
Lighting Efficiency
Assess lighting efficiency and control.
- All or nearly all lighting converted to LED?
- Occupancy sensors in conference rooms, restrooms, storage areas?
- Daylight sensors dimming lights in areas with significant natural light?
- Exit signs LED with photoluminescent backup?
- Exterior lighting on timer or photocell controls - not on 24/7?
Water Heating
Assess water heating efficiency.
- Water heater EF 0.90+ (heat pump water heater EF 2.0+ recommended)?
- Hot water pipes insulated in unconditioned spaces?
- Low-flow faucets and showerheads installed (1.5-2.0 gpm)?
- Hot water recirculation pump on timer or demand control?
- Solar water heating evaluated for sunny climates?
Utility Data Analysis
Review utility consumption data for benchmarking.
- 12 months of utility bills collected for energy use intensity analysis?
- Property benchmarked in EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager?
- ENERGY STAR score above 50 (national average)?
- Submetering of major energy uses (HVAC, lighting, process) available?
- Utility rebate programs for efficiency improvements identified?
Energy Audit Report
Document energy audit findings and recommendations.
- Written ASHRAE Level 1 or 2 energy audit report completed?
- Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) listed with costs, savings, and payback?
- ECMs prioritized by simple payback period and ROI?
- Utility and state rebate applications identified and initiated?
- Implementation plan developed for high-priority ECMs?
- Pre-improvement energy baseline established for measurement and verification?
Related Real Estate Property Checklists
- New Construction Punch List and Final Inspection Checklist
- New Construction Punch List and Final Inspection Checklist
- Fair Housing Compliance Audit Checklist
- Property Stormwater and Drainage Management Inspection Checklist
- Property Security System and Camera Audit Checklist
- HOA Community Standards and Covenant Compliance Audit Checklist
Related Project Management Checklists
Why Use This Property Energy Efficiency Audit Checklist?
This property energy efficiency audit checklist helps real estate & property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for energy auditor / facilities director professionals, this checklist covers 32 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: every 3-5 years or before major renovation.
Ensures compliance with ASHRAE 211 Standard for Commercial Building Energy Audits, RESNET Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating Standards, IECC International Energy Conservation Code, EPA ENERGY STAR Building Benchmarking Requirements, DOE Weatherization Assistance Program Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Property Energy Efficiency Audit Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 32 inspection items across 6 sections: Building Envelope, HVAC Efficiency, Lighting Efficiency, Water Heating, Utility Data Analysis, Energy Audit Report. It is designed for real estate & property management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed every 3-5 years or before major renovation. Each completion takes approximately 90-120 minutes.
Who should use this Property Energy Efficiency Audit Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Energy Auditor / Facilities Director professionals in the real estate & property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.