VA Energy Efficient Improvements Checklist
Below is a list of acceptable VA energy efficient improvements according to the VA Loan Handbook. Qualified applicants can roll the cost of the improvements into your new loan up to a maximum amount of $6000.
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VA acceptable energy efficiency improvements are:
- Solar heating systems, including solar systems for heating water for domestic use
- Solar heating and cooling systems
- Caulking and weather-stripping
- Furnace efficiency modifications limited to replacement burners, boilers, or furnaces designed to reduce the firing rate or to achieve a reduction in the amount of fuel consumed as a result of increased combustion efficiency, devices for modifying flue openings which will increase the efficiency of the heating system, and electrical or mechanical furnace ignition systems which replace standing gas pilot lights.
- Clock thermostats
- New or additional ceiling, attic, wall, and floor insulation
- Water heater insulation
- Storm windows and/or doors, including thermal windows and/or doors
- Heat pumps
- Vapor barriers
You can increase your loan amount up to $6000 for energy efficiency improvements. You will need to provide the following additional documentation to have the cost of these improvements rolled into your loan amount:
If improvements total $0 – $3000
- A copy of a contractor bid or quote itemizing the improvements and the cost. The quote must list the model number or name of the items to be installed and the bid must be signed and dated by both the contractor and the borrowers.
- A manufacturer brochure or flyer for each of the item(s) you are installing. The brochure or flyer must state the item’s model number or name. The model number/name must match up with the model number/name listed on your bid/quote.
If improvements total $3000 – $6000
- A copy of a contractor bid or quote itemizing the improvements and the cost. The quote must list the model number or name of the items to be installed and the bid must be signed and dated by both the contractor and the borrowers.
- A manufacturer brochure or flyer for each of the item(s) you are installing. The brochure or flyer must state the item’s model number or name. The model number/name must match up with the model number/name listed on your bid/quote.
- An energy audit performed by your utility company or another 3rd party. The energy audit needs to show what your current monthly average utility cost are for the last year.
Upon closing, the funds added to your loan amount for the energy efficient improvements will be held in an escrow account until your improvements are completed. Upon completion of the improvements, an inspection is done to verify completion and the funds will then be released.
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