A residential sustainability audit provides critical baseline information about the building’s existing condition and performance. The audit also can identify immediate remediation needs and inform a prioritization list for upgrades and retrofits. Issues to investigate include water, energy, household purchases, waste, contaminants, moisture, and mold.

A detailed audit should be performed by a contractor; however, residents can undertake some elements of an audit autonomously. 

Sample checklist items include the following:

Water

• Collect and review water bills for the past 2 years.  
• Examine indoor and outdoor piping and fixtures to identify the location of any leaks.
• Record the age and model number of all water-consuming appliances, including dishwashers and washing machines.
• Note whether toilets are dual-flush toilets.
• Identify viable locations to collect and store rainwater for irrigation reuse.

Energy

• Collect and review energy bills for the past 2 years.
• Identify all fuel types, such as gas, propane or oil.
• Consider whether seasonal issues exist regarding thermal comfort, such as drafts in winter or the need for space heaters.
• Note issues of intense solar heat gain.
• Inspect doors and windows to ensure that caulking and weatherstripping are present and investigate attic areas for insulation levels.
• Note whether there are programmable or ‘learning’ thermostats, which gather information about occupant schedules and preferences and adjust accordingly over time.
• List all lighting sources, including quantities and wattage of indoor and outdoor fixtures.
• Record the type, age, and model number of all appliances, to assist with further research on energy use.
• Check whether hot water piping is insulated and if older hot water tank models have jacket insulation. Record temperature setpoints of the water heater and note if a timer is being used.

Materials

• Review purchasing practices (see Waste: Green Purchasing).
• Determine whether there are recycling bins and yard waste or compost bins, as appropriate.

Indoor environment

• Inventory the household cleaning and maintenance products, noting harmful chemicals (see Indoor Environment: Green Cleaning).
• Confirm that exhaust fans are operational.
• Note signs of moisture buildup and mold, such as discoloration, musty smells, damp basements, or patches of mold or mildew.
• Record incidents of condensation on windows and air conditioning systems.
• Note any peeling paint.
• In cold climates, note icicles and ice dams.
• Confirm that functioning carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are properly located in bedrooms and living areas.
• Perform a radon test, or engage a professional to perform one, where regional data indicates presence of radon, particularly in residences with basements or slab on grade.
• Prior to any renovation project, confirm whether asbestos or lead paint is present.