Designers/Specifiers are knowledgeable in the brands, models and sizes, and efficiency performance measures needed in a given home. Specifically, a designer/specifier might be a weatherization contractor that assists in the weatherization of your home or a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rater/contractor that assess the energy performance of a home using a HERS. (It is important to note that FHA prohibits HERS raters from conducting installation).

As stated earlier, grantees may elect to train their staff, hire a contractor, installer, or auditor to carry out this function.

When hiring a designer/specifier it is recommended that the following be considered:

• Expertise. The individuals identifying the energy efficiency measures to undertake and equipment to use should have the appropriate technical background and be familiar with the various systems, their capabilities as well as the needs of the home.
  
  
• Conflict of Interest. To ensure you are aware of any financial interests the designer/specifier in identifying a particular system or unit, ask the contractor to inform you of any financial relationships he/she may have with equipment vendors or service companies.
  
  
• References. It is recommended that information about past projects be requested as well as contact information for past clients. References should be contacted.
  
  
• Additional Information. It is important to research your options when hiring a contractor. Grantees can obtain contractor referrals from real estate agents and bank lenders who often suggest local contractors recommended by their clients. It is always a good idea to contact your Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, state consumer protection office, and local county courthouse as well as contractor trade organizations. Energy Match has additional tips for locating a contractor.