Question 1

What is a Trade Ally?

Accepted Answer

A "Trade Ally," as we like to call them, is a contractor that has partnered with the Focus on Energy program. Our Trade Allies have to adhere to a strict code of conduct and in some cases additional trainings and courses in order to call themselves a "Trade Ally."

Question 2

How do I find a contractor?

Accepted Answer

There are many ways to find a good contractor. Use our Find A Trade Ally tool, ask friends and family for referrals, check references and search for reviews online, such as those from the Better Business Bureau. However you choose to obtain the information, we recommend the following tips when hiring a contractor: Always use a professional contractor. Be sure to get more than one bid for the work (at least three bids are ideal). The lowest bids aren't always the best – compare itemized bids to determine what products or services, including any maintenance and warranties, are included in the costs. Ask for written, itemized estimates that include all potential costs. Ask your contractors what trainings or certifications they have received. Read reviews on online sites like Yelp and Angie's List. Obtain and sign a contract, including: itemized costs, proof of insurance, completion date, and payment terms.

Question 3

How do I know if a contractor is a licensed professional?

Accepted Answer

Installation by a professional contractor is required to be eligible for rebates offered through the Trade Ally Solutions (does not apply to smart thermostats). To verify whether your contractor is a professional contractor, ask them for a copy of their professional contractor license. Equipment must be installed according to all applicable building, local, state and federal codes, standards, ordinances and regulations, and manufacturer specifications. A licensed contractor can help you obtain all necessary permits and ensure that all work is done to code. Please use our Find A Trade Ally tool for a complete listing of qualified contractors. You can also ask friends and family for referrals, check references and search for reviews online, including those from the Better Business Bureau. However you choose to obtain the information, we recommend the following tips when hiring a contractor: Always use a professional contractor. Be sure to get more than one bid for the work (at least three bids are ideal). The lowest bids aren't always the best – compare itemized bids to determine what products or services, including any maintenance and warranties, are included in the costs. Ask for written, itemized estimates that include all potential costs. Ask your contractors what trainings or certifications they have received. Read reviews on online sites like Yelp and Angie's List. Obtain and sign a contract, including: itemized costs, proof of insurance, completion date, and payment terms.

Question 4

Can I use a contractor from out of state?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Contractors from out of state are allowed as long as they hold professional credentials in Wisconsin or their state of operation.

Question 5

Can someone help me out with the Find A Trade Ally Tool?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If you find yourself having a hard time with our Find a Trade Ally tool simply pick up the phone and call 800.762.7077 during normal business hours and a representative will assist you in your search.

Question 6

Do you recommend certain Trade Allies?

Accepted Answer

No, we don't recommend any one Trade Ally over another. The way our Find a Trade Ally tool "ranks" Trade Allies is based upon how close they are located to the center of the zip code provided.

Question 7

Does my contractor have to be a Trade Ally in order to participate in Focus on Energy?

Accepted Answer

For most programs, yes, you can still receive incentives even if a Trade Ally isn't in our list. There are some programs that require a Focus on Energy Trade Ally due to the specialized nature of what is offered. On the Residential side, the Insulation and Air Sealing path requires a Focus Trade Ally since these contractors are trained and certified to do energy assessments and will provide you with the best recommendations to make your home more comfortable. On the Business side, there are a few specialized programs that require a Focus on Energy Trade Ally. This includes: Retrocommissioning, Express Building Tune Up, Waste Water Plant Assessments, Agriculture Pump Assessments, and Whole Building Tune-ups. You can encourage your favorite contractor to sign up to be a Trade Ally. There's no cost for them to sign up. Contact us at 800.762.7077 for more information.

Question 8

How do I know if a Trade Ally is certified to do an energy assessment?

Accepted Answer

Energy assessments can only be performed by Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program Trade Allies (contractors) who are Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified. Use our Find A Trade Ally Tool to find a Trade Ally who is certified to perform Home Energy Assessments near you.

Question 9

How Many Projects Will I Need To Complete Each Year To Remain A Trade Ally?

Accepted Answer

To retain your listing in the "Find A Trade Ally" tool, Trade Allies must complete a minimum of one (1) project per calendar year.

Question 10

I Am Installing A Piece Of Equipment That Is Not Listed On The Qualified Product List. How Do I Get It Added?

Accepted Answer

If the model you plan to sell to a customer is not on one of the pre-qualified lists, but meets the eligibility criteria, please gather as much support documentation (technical specification sheets, manufacturer information sheets, etc.) as possible to ensure the equipment's qualification and contact us at TradeAlly@focusonenergy.com.

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