EnerGuide home evaluation: what happens and how to prepare so it is not cancelled

An EnerGuide evaluation gives you a rating, a label and a list of recommended upgrades. Done before a renovation, it tells you what to fix first; done after, it proves what you did. NRCan's guidance explains how it works and how to prepare.

What the advisor checks

The evaluation usually starts outside and moves inside. The advisor records the number, type and location of windows and exterior doors, examines insulation in walls, ceilings and the basement, checks heating, cooling, water heating and ventilation equipment, and measures airtightness with a blower door test. The data produce the EnerGuide rating.

What you receive

After the visit you get an EnerGuide label, a homeowner information sheet and a renovation upgrade report.

Preparing for the blower door test

The home needs a space heating system that can keep the living space at 22 C. Windows and doors must be closed; at most one window or door may be missing, and only if the opening is temporarily covered and air sealed. If a temporary seal fails during the test, the home cannot be evaluated. Remove ashes from wood-burning appliances, expect fuel-fired heating and water heating to be turned down or off during the test, and clear access to the attic, crawl space and mechanical equipment.

After the work

A post-retrofit evaluation measures energy saved and emissions reduced. Rebate programs that require it also want evidence of the upgrades, so keep paid invoices and receipts.

Before you start demolition

Book the pre-retrofit evaluation before tearing anything out. Vermiculite insulation in the house can prevent a blower door test; deal with it first.

Prevention Checklist

• Book the pre-retrofit evaluation before work starts.
• Make sure heating can keep the house at 22 C.
• Close all windows and doors; seal any single missing one properly.
• Clear access to attic, crawl space and equipment.
• Keep all invoices for the post-retrofit evaluation.

References

1. Natural Resources Canada. EnerGuide energy efficiency home evaluations, Web page, What the advisor checks; outputs. Accessed 2026-11-01.
2. Natural Resources Canada. How do I prepare for an EnerGuide home evaluation?, Web page, Blower door preparation. Accessed 2026-11-01.

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