EnerGuide Audit for Ontario Renovation Rebates

If you plan two or more upgrades under Ontario's Home Renovation Savings Program — for example insulation plus windows, or a heat pump bundled with envelope work — you need a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation before any renovation starts. A standalone heat pump, solar, or smart thermostat does not require an audit.

Single upgrade vs bundled path

• No audit: standalone air-source or ground-source heat pump, solar panels, smart thermostat
• Audit required: two or more measures such as insulation + windows, heat pump + insulation, or multi-zone envelope work
• Attic insulation alone can qualify standalone (up to $1,250) without an audit — see our attic insulation guide

What the EnerGuide process looks like

1. Hire a participating contractor and confirm your project is on the bundled path.
2. Book a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation with a registered energy advisor.
3. Receive your report and renovation plan — do not start work until this step is complete.
4. Complete all bundled upgrades per the plan.
5. Schedule a post-retrofit evaluation; your contractor submits the rebate application.

Typical audit cost

Pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations often run $300–$600 each in Ontario, depending on home size and advisor. Some contractors bundle audit coordination into project pricing. Confirm who pays before you book — the provincial rebate does not always cover the full audit fee.

Common mistakes

• Starting window or insulation work before the pre-audit
• Assuming a heat pump install needs an audit when it is your only upgrade
• Using a contractor who is not registered for bundled submissions
• Skipping the post-retrofit evaluation before rebate paperwork

Related guides

See our bundled upgrades guide for rebate caps, how to find participating contractors, and step-by-step application order. Run the free eligibility checker to see gas vs non-gas heat pump amounts.