COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT BECOMING A REGISTERED CONTRACTORS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Registered Contractors
How do I become an approved contractor for rebate programs?
A. Contractors will need to meet specific program standards and training to become part of a qualified contractor network.
- Letter of Good Standing from the state of North Carolina
- Certificate of Insurance (COI)
- Applicable Licenses
- Applicable Certifications
- W9
- In Business Two Years or Longer (preferred)
- Adhere to Quality Assurance/Control Requirements
What documentation is required to apply for rebates?
A. Contractors must provide detailed invoices and proof of installation.
Are there any training or license requirements?
Yes. Contractors must have the proper licenses for their trade (like electrical, plumbing, or general contracting). They’ll also need to complete our program training to become an approved contractor. If they don’t already have a BPI certification, they’ll need to earn the BPI Building Science Principles certification within 90 days of joining the network.
How can I help homeowners navigate the program?
You can guide homeowners through the application process using the documents provided to you by the program.
For HOMES, you can assist them in identifying effective upgrades following their required, but free Home Energy Assessment offered at no cost to the homeowner.
What if rebates aren’t available in a certain geographic area yet?
This program is first come, first served, so homeowners are encouraged to apply so that when they can begin improvements immediately.
Retroactive rebates are not permitted for installations after 1/20/2025.
For installations prior to that all program rules must have been followed, including whole home assessment if applicable. (View Energy Saver North Carolina Geographic Expansion Map)
How is the rebate processed?
A. The following bullet points describe the steps involved in rebate processing.
Once the rebate is reviewed and the project documents approved, the primary contractor will be paid within 30 days.
When a scope of the project is accepted by the contractor, the program and the customer, a rebate is reserved for the project.
After the work has been completed, the contractor will submit a project invoice and other relevant documents through the Quality Install Tool (photos, etc.).
Will contractors need to pay the upfront costs?
Yes. Energy Saver North Carolina is a cash-funded, market-rate project where the contractor fronts the expense.
At the end of the project, the contractor sends and invoice to Energy Saver North Carolina for the eligible rebate amount. The rebates act as upfront discounts, so the contractor should not invoice the customer for the portion covered by Energy Saver North Carolina.
The customer does pay any remaining balance if project costs exceed the eligible rebate amount.