Who Can Perform the Work?
Only Keystone HELP® Approved Contractors may perform the work. Click Here or call (888) 232-3477 to find Approved Contractors in your area. If you would like to use a contractor who is not currently approved, have them contact AFC First to inquire about becoming an Approved Contractor.
There are three levels of contractors and one level of energy auditor certification under the program.
Please note that Keystone HELP does not endorse any particular contractor, but maintains a directory of contractors who have applied and been authorized to participate in the program at these different levels. While the contractors in our directory have been screened and qualified to the best of our ability, you will be entering into a direct relationship with the contractor of your choice and it is important that you review their credentials, qualifications and references to make an informed decision.
Approved Contractors have been reviewed for financial and ethical stability and are currently authorized to perform work under all rebate and loan programs except the “Whole House Improvement Loan” programs.
Trained Contractors are Approved Contractors who are not BPI (Building Performance Institute) certified or accredited but have undergone additional training on building science and “Whole House” energy improvements (including RESNET certification or satisfactory completion of the Keystone HELP sponsored “Home Performance 101” course), and are currently authorized to perform work under all rebate and loan programs. If they are performing work under the “Whole House Improvement Loan” program, they must be working under a Certified Auditor who provides on-site oversight of their work.
Certified Contractors are Approved Contractors who have achieved BPI (Building Performance Institute) certification or accreditation. BPI is the nationally recognized designation for building and energy professionals who have undergone rigorous training on “Whole House” energy improvements. Certified Contractors are authorized to perform work under all rebate and loan programs.
Certified Auditors are Approved Contractors certified by both BPI (Building Performance Institute) and RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network) to conduct home energy audits and must have a HERS rater number, be operating under a HERS provider, or be an approved audit provider under the PA Home Energy Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program. You must have an audit performed by a Certified Auditor to utilize the “Whole House Improvement Loan” Program. Certified Auditors may work independently from your contractor or they may be Certified Contractors who have also met the qualifications to perform as Certified Auditors.
You may have a contract with only one Approved, Trained or Certified Contractor for the rebate or unsecured loan programs. Multiple Approved, Trained or Certified Contractors are permitted under secured loan program. Approved, Trained or Certified Contractors are permitted to use sub-contractors in the normal course of their business, providing that your contract for work is only with an Approved, Trained or Certified Contractor.
You may, however, enter into a separate contract with a Certified Auditor for a home energy audit.
Click Here for Information on Becoming an Approved Keystone HELP® Contractor.
