Page 65

ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Section Three: Payment Types Intake, Operations & Policy Manual

Program Year 2026 65 conversions should be carefully weighed against other options and although it is not required, it is recommended to get OHCS approval prior to proceeding. In addition to the standard, required information that must be included in any energy assistance file, each heating/cooling equipment repair/replacement must have the following additional 9 items: 1. Homeowner authorization: This will be a locally developed form that must be signed by the homeowner authorizing installation, replacement and/or repair of the existing equipment. This form must be signed even if the applicant is the homeowner. In addition, proof of homeownership must be provided via printout from local tax assessor’s website/office. (Please contact OHCS if there is difficulty obtaining these documents). 2. Pre-Inspection: A pre-inspection must be completed to make sure the equipment or system is unsafe or dysfunctional. 3. Proposal: A proposal from HVAC vendor outlining details regarding all recommended work to be completed, and price. The proposal must be approved by an authorized agency staff member (usually via signature). 4. Change order: If the cost of the repair/replacement changes for any reason, a change order must be documented in the file and must include an authorized agency staff member approval. 5. Carbon monoxide alarm: A carbon monoxide alarm must be installed (according to manufactures recommendation) in all homes receiving a heating/cooling equipment repair/replacement. If there is an existing carbon monoxide alarm, it must be tested/certified as functioning according to manufacturer’s standards. Installation of alarm, or testing/certification of existing alarm must be documented in the file. 6. Combustion testing: In homes with combustion appliances, combustion testing must be completed by a qualified technician (e.g., weatherization inspector, HVAC technician, staff person trained in the use of testing equipment). At a minimum, this testing must include ambient carbon monoxide testing and be documented in the file. Combustion appliances include but are not limited to: natural gas, propane, wood, pellet, oil, kerosene, etc. 7. Post inspection: A post inspection must be completed by an agency representative or a designated third party (e.g. weatherization inspector, HVAC technician (other than the one who completed the installation of the work) or a staff person trained in the use of equipment). The equipment must be run