Make your PIVs a success: Tips for smooth verifications


Two construction workers on a rooftop perform maintenance near a white wall. The foreground worker kneels, using a tool on a conduit, wearing a blue hard hat with stickers, blue shirt, safety vest, and harness. The background worker stands holding a tool, also in safety gear. Nearby are tools, cables, and a box labeled “VERSICO Roofing Systems – 850-SS White Cut-Off Mastic.” The scene highlights industrial roofing work and safety practicesPost-installation verifications (PIVs) are a key step in confirming that projects meet Energy Trust’s requirements and provide the most savings for the customers’ investments. Whether projects are prescriptive or custom, PIVs ensures that installed equipment meets incentive requirements and is in operation.

During a PIV, an Energy Trust representative or third-party verifier visits the site or requests photo documentation to confirm incentive requirements are met. If discrepancies are found, the trade ally will be notified and given time to make corrections. Incentive requirements must be met before payment is issued. Avoiding a few common errors can help prevent delays and keep projects on track.

Here are a few best practices and commonly missed items to help make the verification process smooth and efficient:

Multifamily Insulation (Specifications Manual, pg. 26)

  • Use depth markers to show final insulation levels.
  • Install baffles, insulate attic access to R-30, and weatherstrip hatches.
  • Follow the insulation checklist in the Specifications Manual.

Ductless Heat Pumps

  • Include clear photos of the model plate and full installation (line set, electrical, condensate drain).
  • Follow manufacturer specs and local code.
  • Show these primary details in overview photo(s):
    • line set fully insulated to outdoor unit
    • electrical and line set penetrations sealed
    • condensate drain is in a suitable location.

Smart Thermostats

  • Submit screenshots or photos showing device settings.
  • Ensure setbacks, fan schedules and overrides meet program requirements.

Above-Deck Roof Insulation

  • Take in-progress photos of insulation installation before the roof is sealed.

General Tip
Always capture clear photos as work is completed, especially for areas that may become inaccessible later. Good documentation helps verifications go smoothly and ensures customers receive incentives quickly.

For custom projects, coordinate with the Energy Trust engineering team early to confirm what is required for approval.

For help with questions, contact your Energy Trust program at multifamily@energytrust.org or existingbuildings@energytrust.org.