Careful planning in a new construction project reduces the chances of costly onsite errors and can also make your project eligible for a $500 incentive from Energy Trust of Oregon. The incentive for early design assistance encourages builders to compile a team to evaluate projects in their early planning stages.

The team should include the builder, superintendent, designer/architect, customer, subcontractors and EPS™ verifier, and must feature at least one New Homes team member. Consulting each party and allowing them to weigh in is a smart move that pays off in more ways than one. Early design assistance creates an opportunity for all participants to provide input, voice their concerns and discuss installation sequencing. This gives the builder a chance to address any potential problem areas early.

For an example of early design planning in action, consider a builder or architect working with an HVAC contractor before construction begins. Traditionally, HVAC contractors don’t enter the picture until the home is in the post-framing stage. This often leaves them in the position of accommodating a home that wasn’t initially designed for a specific HVAC system. An early design planning session helps to avoid this predicament by encouraging early collaboration in the design stage. It allows the designer to make adjustments and the framer to maintain proper clearances and routing, and it keeps plumbers and electricians aware of potential conflicts. The end result is a better performing system that costs less up front, is less expensive to maintain and offers superior comfort—all great benefits for both the builder and future homeowner.

For more information, contact Energy Trust’s trade ally coordinator or call 1.877.283.0698.