What Is ECAD and Why Does It Matter When Selling Your Austin Home?

If you’re selling a home in Austin, you might come across something called the ECAD Ordinance (Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure). It’s a city requirement that could impact your sale, so let’s break it down in plain English.

What Is ECAD?

ECAD is a city-mandated energy audit for homes 10 years or older that are serviced by Austin Energy. The goal is to give buyers a clear picture of the home’s energy efficiency before they commit.

Think of it as a home inspection, but specifically for things like:

• Insulation levels
• HVAC efficiency
• Ductwork leaks
• Windows and doors

It’s all about helping homeowners and buyers make informed decisions because no one likes surprise high energy bills.

Who Needs an ECAD Audit?

If you’re selling a single-family home that’s at least 10 years old and connected to Austin Energy, you’ll likely need to complete an ECAD audit before closing.

There are some exceptions, including:

• Homes that have had major energy upgrades through Austin Energy programs
• Homes that meet certain efficiency standards already
• Foreclosed properties or those sold in certain legal situations

How Does the ECAD Process Work?

1. Hire a certified ECAD energy professional – You can’t just do this yourself. A licensed auditor will come out to inspect your home.
2. Get your ECAD report – The audit results will be documented in an official report.
3. Disclose it to buyers – The report must be shared with potential buyers before closing.

The ECAD report doesn’t require you to make repairs—it’s just for disclosure. But if the report reveals inefficiencies, making a few upgrades could be a great selling point.

Why ECAD Matters for Sellers and Buyers

For sellers, this is one of those "better to know sooner than later" situations. If your home has energy inefficiencies, buyers will find out, so it’s good to be prepared.

For buyers, an ECAD report provides transparency and helps them factor energy costs into their decision. A home with poor efficiency might need upgrades, while a well-insulated home could save them money long-term.

Bottom Line

If you’re selling in Austin and your home is 10 or more years old, don’t skip the ECAD step. It’s a simple process, but it’s required, and it helps ensure a smooth closing.

Need help navigating ECAD or getting ready to list your home? Let’s chat—I’m here to make your sale as smooth and stress-free as possible.