Q.  I rent my house. Do I still qualify for weatherization?
A. Your landlord must agree to pay a portion of the weatherization cost before your house can be qualified for any weatherization work. Your local agency can provide more details.

Q.  What kind of work gets done to my house?
A.  The work performed will include those measures that will save the most energy within the budget available. Work to be done is determined by the results of a computerized energy analysis of the structure; no two houses will have the same work performed.

Q.  Does weatherization include work like replacement roofs, new siding and plumbing? 
A.  Due to the cost of these repairs, the weatherization program cannot replace roofs, siding or plumbing. Your local agency may be able to refer you to other resources in your community for those repairs.

Q. How is it determined which work measures will be done? 
A. A technician will record all the required structural information about your house and will then use a computerized energy audit program that tells what weatherization measures will be most cost effective for your dwelling.

Q. Who does the work? 
A. Individuals (local work crews or contractors) specifically trained to install weatherization measures will be performing the work, under the agency's supervision. 
 
Q.  Is any of the work guaranteed? 
A.  The final work is inspected by an agency staff member specifically trained to review the work done on the home. The homeowner then has final written approval that the work was done correctly. If any of the work is not satisfactory, the agency may "call back" the workers or contractor that performed the work to complete it satisfactorily. 
 
Q. What is the average energy savings on a weatherized home?  
A.  Savings vary across the state according to the weather and/or cost of fuel in that locality. An energy savings study done in 1988 showed an average statewide savings of 25% Most occupants report an increased comfort level throughout the seasons as well as energy savings. However, specific energy savings may depend on such things as weatherization measures installed, changing fuel costs, weather and the energy conservation habits of the occupants.

Q.  Is all the income in my household counted? 
A.  Generally, yes. Certain monies may be excluded from the income calculation, but these can change from one program year to the next. Check with your local agency for specific income guidelines and calculations.

Q.  What happens after the work is finished? 
A. An agency representative will come to the house when the occupant is present and together they will inspect the work. The occupant will then have the opportunity to give final approval and/or request corrections in the work performed. 
 
Q.  Households in Weatherization are prioritized. What does that mean? 
A.  It means that the program's goal is to serve those households that have the lowest incomes, together with the highest energy burdens. Income, eligible households with high heating bills, in relation to income, and those containing elderly members (60 and over) with a disability or young children (5 years of age or below) will be given priority and weatherization services first. Non-priority, income-eligible households will be served if funding is available. Therefore, some eligible households may not receive weatherization assistance during the program year they applied in.