Buyers
As a home buyer, you have the right to know energy efficiency information about your new home. Energy efficiency is an important consideration when buying a home.
If you are looking to buy a residential property with four or fewer dwellings, the Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) ordinance (pdf) requires that the seller has an energy audit done before selling home if all of the following apply:
- The seller’s home is in the Austin Energy Service Area
- The seller’s home is located within Austin city limits
- The home is 10 years or older
The energy audit must be done by a qualified ECAD Energy Professional. You should receive an Audit Certificate attached to the Seller’s Disclosure Notice. The seller must provide the energy audit results to you:
- Three days before the end of the option period or time of contract
- If no option period exists, at the time of the contract signing
View our Guide for Homebuyers, Homesellers, and Homeowners to learn which Austin Energy incentives can help homeowners meet ECAD requirements:
Sellers May Qualify for a Variance if You Plan to Make Major Changes
If you plan to demolish, substantially remodel, or make certain improvements to your new home, let the seller know. Making major improvements can affect the need for an ECAD audit. The seller may be eligible for a variance.
Learn more about variances and how to apply
Your Seller May be Exempt from ECAD
Not all homes require an ECAD audit.
Learn more about ECAD exemptions to see if you qualify
Austin Energy Can Help if You Want to Make Improvements
ECAD does not require you to make energy efficiency improvements to your new home. However, you can use the ECAD audit to help you make decisions about energy efficiency improvements.
Making these improvements can save you money on your monthly bill, increase your new property's value, and help protect the environment. Austin Energy offers incentives for energy efficiency upgrades.
ECAD is the Law
ECAD is a law similar to other energy ordinances in the nation and the world. Non-compliance with ECAD is a Class C misdemeanor with fines from $500 to $2,000. Anyone may file violations (pdf) with the City of Austin Municipal Courts for review and action.
Download the City of Austin Municipal Court Violation Complaint form (pdf)
Contact Us
Please call 512-482-5346 or email ECAD if you have any questions or need additional information about the ECAD ordinance.