Get rebate ready before you request quotes or sign.
Use this checklist to prepare for rebate-sensitive projects like heat pumps, insulation, air sealing, HVAC, windows, appliances, or solar. The goal is simple: know what to verify before you spend money.
1. Write down the basics first
Before calling contractors, collect the details that usually affect rebate eligibility or next steps.
- ZIP code and town
- Electric and gas utility, if applicable
- Primary residence, rental, condo, or multifamily status
- Current heating fuel and equipment age
- Project type and rough timeline
- Any quote or model numbers you already have
- Whether work has started or equipment was purchased
- Whether you have had a recent home energy assessment
- Income-eligible or enhanced incentive possibilities
- Financing needs, including whether a 0% loan path matters
2. Check the sequence before work starts
Many rebate mistakes happen because a homeowner buys equipment, signs a quote, or starts installation before confirming the required order.
- Do you need a home energy assessment before the project?
- Does the equipment need to appear on a qualified product list?
- Does the contractor need to be in a specific installer network?
- Do you need pre-approval, reservation, or financing paperwork before installation?
- Who submits the application, and what documents will you receive?
3. Ask every contractor these rebate-readiness questions
- Which exact rebate or financing program are you assuming applies?
- Are you approved or qualified for that program and this project type?
- Which model numbers, efficiency ratings, and system design details make this eligible?
- What paperwork will you provide, and when?
- Will you submit the rebate application, or do I submit it?
- What happens if the rebate is denied, reduced, delayed, or rules change?
- Is any insulation, air sealing, assessment, control, or electrical work required first?
4. Red flags before signing
- The quote says “rebate eligible” but does not name the program or equipment.
- The contractor cannot explain who files the paperwork.
- The rebate is treated like guaranteed cash off without conditions.
- You are pressured to sign before confirming requirements.
- The quote does not include model numbers, scope, controls, warranty, or documentation responsibilities.
5. What Get Rebate Ready can help with
We are not referring homeowners to contractors yet. For now, the useful service is preparation:
- A first-pass summary of likely rebate paths to verify.
- A short list of questions to ask before booking work.
- Quote-prep guidance if you already have contractor paperwork.
- Links to official resources so you can verify the current rules yourself.
Quick FAQ before you book work
Do I need a Mass Save home energy assessment first?
Sometimes. Mass Save’s insulation and air sealing path commonly starts with a no-cost Home Energy Assessment, but Mass Save also describes direct weatherization incentives for some homeowners who work with a participating Direct Weatherization Independent Installation Contractor. For heat pumps, Mass Save points homeowners to Heat Pump Installer Network contractors and lists weatherization-related bonuses for some partial-home projects. Ask which path applies before scheduling.
Can I apply after work starts?
Do not assume so. Some rebates, financing steps, contractor requirements, product-list requirements, or verification forms may need to be handled before purchase or installation. If a contractor says “we’ll do the rebate later,” ask them to identify the exact program, who submits it, and what paperwork you will receive.
Where should I verify current rules?
Start with official Mass Save pages for air-source heat pumps, insulation and air sealing, and program FAQs. If a utility, lender, tax credit, or municipal light plant is involved, verify with that source too.