📋 Working with Contractors & Choosing the Right Approach Quiz

Test your knowledge! Select your answers and submit to see your results.

1. What is the primary purpose of a Scope of Work (SOW) in a home energy retrofit?

A) It provides a contract template for legal purposes.
B) It ensures all phases of the project are planned, scheduled, and monitored.
C) It is used only for large commercial projects.
D) It determines the home's Home Energy Score.

2. Why should homeowners verify contractor certifications before hiring?

A) To ensure the contractor is familiar with energy efficiency standards and rebate programs.
B) To avoid working with any licensed professionals.
C) Because only architects need certifications.
D) To get a discount on installation costs.

3. What is a major benefit of using the DOE Home Improvement Expert™ checklists?

A) It guarantees your home will become net-zero.
B) It ensures installations follow best practices for energy efficiency and safety.
C) It replaces the need for professional energy audits.
D) It is required by all local building codes.

4. When should a homeowner consider hiring an architect for a retrofit?

A) If the project involves structural modifications, passive solar design, or whole-home energy optimization.
B) Only if they are installing a heat pump.
C) When they want a general contractor to handle everything.
D) Architects are not necessary for retrofits.

5. What is a key risk of managing a home energy retrofit yourself?

A) Increased time commitment and coordination requirements.
B) It always costs more than hiring a contractor.
C) You are not eligible for any incentives.
D) The project will take half the time compared to hiring a GC.

6. What is a major advantage of hiring a general contractor (GC) for a retrofit?

A) They provide a one-stop solution for managing the project, subcontractors, and permitting.
B) GCs are always the cheapest option.
C) They handle architectural design for free.
D) GCs are only necessary for commercial projects.