We understand that embarking on a retrofit process can be daunting and confusing, that’s really the reason Retrofit Assist started! Our overarching goal is to make it a lot easier for you get started so the process is manageable and maybe even exciting. If you’re considering applying to participate in our program, but want to know more about just what’s involved, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the steps so you can get a sense of the many ways Retrofit Assist can personalize and support your retrofit journey.
Step 1: Applying
The process begins by applying through our website and scheduling a time to talk with one of our Retrofit Assist coordinators (aka energy retrofit experts) for what we call the “onboarding call”. The application form provides us with enough details to understand where you’re starting from so we can be as helpful as possible during the call.
Step 2: Initial onboarding call
During the first meeting, the Retrofit Assist coordinator will ask a series of questions about your home and retrofit goals – this helps the team plan how best to support your specific retrofit journey – and will talk you through all the next steps. You can ask all your questions, too!
Step 3: EnerGuide Evaluation
The ball really starts rolling with the EnerGuide home evaluation. This step is crucial as it identifies where your home is losing energy and what improvements will have the biggest impact. An Energy Advisor will evaluate everything from your insulation to your heating system, providing a clear picture of where upgrades are needed. You might even discover solutions you didn’t even consider—small improvements that can make a big difference.
As a Rossland participant noted, “The notion of having an EnerGuide evaluation, even just working with an Energy Advisor, was all new to us. It was great to have someone tell us where to start and what grants we’d be eligible for.”
Retrofit Assist has an authorized Energy Advisor in each active community and can assist in scheduling your evaluation.
“I had initially struggled with the process of finding a supplier and wanted to make sure the heat pump model I chose would be eligible for rebates. In addition, the rebate application process itself seemed to be quite complicated. Signing up for the Retrofit Assist project was extremely helpful as I was given a dedicated contact for all of my questions who made sure everything was done correctly. It resulted in a much less stressful and quicker project that maximized the rebates available to me. I would highly recommend Retrofit Assist to anyone considering a retrofit on their home.”
Nick Stenner, Squamish BC
Step 4: Planning your retrofit
After your EnerGuide evaluation, the Retrofit Assist team will schedule a call to go through your report and discuss the next steps. This includes financing options, your upgrade priorities, approximate costs, and rebates you are eligible for. If you’re unsure where to start, Retrofit Assist can help you create a roadmap that balances immediate improvements with long-term goals.
Step 5: Retrofit Financing
As you learn about the retrofit pathway that makes the most sense for you, signing up for the Retrofit Assist integrated loan might be the best option to get started and remove upfront costs for the work. If you do not require financing, Retrofit Assist will still help you through your upgrades, providing rebate support, connecting you with contractors, and more.
If you would like to explore program financing our team will walk you through the process – credit approval, eligible projects, loan terms, etc.
Step 6: Reach out to contractors
Once you know which projects to get started with, the Retrofit Assist team will send you a list of contractors in your area who can perform those upgrades. We’ll make sure you know which contractors satisfy financing and rebate requirements. We will even review the quotes you receive from contractors to ensure they meet rebate requirements.
Step 7: The retrofit work
This is where all the planning gets real! We recommend taking photos along the way so you can see progress and maybe even take part in a case study! It’s always great to compare before and after photos. As always you can connect with a Retrofit Assist coordinator at any time if issues or questions pop-up.
Step 8: Post-retrofit EnerGuide Evaluation and grant applications
Once the work is done, it’s time for a post-retrofit EnerGuide Evaluation. This ensures everything has been installed correctly and meets energy efficiency standards. The Retrofit Assist team can schedule this for you and assist you through the final rebate application stage. After that, it’s all about enjoying the benefits!
What if my situation changes during the retrofit process?
We understand some retrofits include big decisions. We will provide the necessary information along the way, pressure-free. During your planning steps, you can pause at any time. We want to ensure that once you are working with a contractor or finalizing financing, you are confident about the work and how it will benefit you and your home.
Read Retrofit Assist case studies.
Retrofit Assist works with homeowners to provide free expert support on the journey to a more comfortable and energy efficient home. Check if Retrofit Assist is available in your community.
