FAQ
FAQ
EarthCraft Virginia Builder FAQ’s:
What is EarthCraft Virginia?
EarthCraft Virginia is a green building program that helps member builders construct healthy, comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment. EarthCraft Virginia is a partnership between the Southface Energy Institute, Virginia Community Development Corporation, the Home Builders Association of Virginia, Habitat for Humanity Virginia and ENERGY STAR has been instrumental in EarthCraft Virginia’s success. The aim of the program is to help home builders be leaders in smart growth management and environmental stewardship.
What are the advantages of EarthCraft Virginia?
The main advantages of EarthCraft Virginia are reducing callbacks, differentiating your business and your homes, increasing profits and enabling potential home buyers to access special mortgage products. EarthCraft Virginia utilizes a systems approach to homebuilding which results in a comfortable home that performs better without costing much more to build than a comparable home built with standard construction practices. More details about the advantages of EarthCraft Virginia can be found here.Why Work With EarthCraft Virginia.
What does it cost to become an EarthCraft Virginia builder or renovator?
Join the Home Builders Association of Virginia or your local Home Builders Association, then join the EarthCraft Virginia program and attend a one-day EarthCraft Virginia training.
How do I certify a house as an EarthCraft Virginia?
To certify an EarthCraft Virginia, a builder must do all of the following:
- Be a member of the EarthCraft Virginia program.
- Register as an ENERGY STAR Partner.
- Participate in a design review with EarthCraft Virginia staff.
- Participate in a walk-through with EarthCraft Virginia staff.
In addition, every house to be certified must meet the following requirements
- Each house must score the minimum points criteria for the program on the Scoring Worksheet.
- Each house must have the plans and a Manual J based on orientation submitted.
- Each house must meet ENERGY STAR certification criteria
- Each house must have a Pre-drywall Inspection by an EarthCraft Virginia inspector.
- Each house must pass a Final Inspection by an EarthCraft Virginia inspector
Does it cost more to buy an EarthCraft Virginia House?
On average EarthCraft Virginia builders report an increase of 0.5 – 3% in construction cost. However, since EarthCraft homes can be more cost effective to own, builder profit can actually be higher for EarthCraft homes.
How long do inspections take?
Pre-drywall inspections typically last 0.5 – 1 hour. Final inspections typically last 2 – 4 hours. Please understand that each home is different and these are approximate durations.
How do I schedule inspections?
Upon joining the program, EarthCraft Virginia builders are assigned one or more EarthCraft Virginia Inspectors. Inspections are scheduled directly with the inspector.
How do I market EarthCraft Virginia?
Marketing materials such as logos, yard signs and brochures are available. Fill out this order form and send it in. EarthCraft Virginia also offers trainings for real estate professionals.