Multi-Family ECAD Audit

1st Choice Energy provides multi-family ECAD Audits in accordance with the City of Austin's Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) ordinance; at a great price and with a quick turnaround.

The City of Austin's Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) ordinance requires that many multi-family buildings undergo an energy audit by a certfiied energy efficiency professional. Austin Energy provides full details of the multi-family ECAD audit on their website, as well as information about rebates for multi-family buildings. This page is intended as an overview of the program -- its requirements, exemptions, and general guidelines as to whether your multi-family building or buildings may require an energy audit.

Do You Need an ECAD Audit for Your Multi-Family Property?

Austin's ECAD ordinance requires that all multi-family buildings undergo an energy audit by June 1, during the calendar year in which the building is 10 years old. A multi-family building is defined as a building with more than 5 dwelling units. 

Exemptions: 

• If your building is less than ten years old, it does not require an energy audit.
• If your building has undergone duct remediation work through Austin Energy's rebate program within ten years, it does not require an audit.
• If you have replaced air conditioning equipment for all units through Austin Energy's rebate program within ten years, it does not require an audit.

What Are the Components of the ECAD Energy Audit?

The ECAD audit must be completed by a certified auditor who has signed up with Austin Energy. (1st Choice Energy is a participating energy auditor; get a hold of us here.) The multi-family ECAD audit consists of the following: 

• A duct pressure test to measure the leakiness of duct systems.
• An inspection and measurement of attic insulation. 
• Identification of windows that receive more than one hour of direct sunlight each day. 

After the audit, we provide you with a copy of the audit report, which must be posted at your property and shown to prospective and current residents of the building. 

What are the Consequences of Non-Complicance?

The goal is complicance, so the City of Austin is encouraging those who did not meet the June 1, 2011 deadline, to schedule an audit now. Getting your ECAD audit done is the best way to avoid possible costly fines. Click here to read the Austin Apartment Association October newsletter article addressing consequence.