The Green Home Planning Checklist

What is inside the checklist

The checklist is a printable planning guide for homeowners who want a healthier, lower-energy custom home. It is made to help you think through the big choices early, before pricing and construction begin.

It covers the main topics that affect performance and comfort, such as the building enclosure, windows, HVAC, ventilation, water heating, solar readiness, and all-electric options. It also includes space to write your goals, priorities, and questions for each builder you meet.

You will also get prompts for key details, including:
- Insulation targets and where they apply
- Airtightness goals and whether a blower-door test will be included
- Window U-factor and SHGC questions
- Heat pump, HRV, or ERV discussions
- Roof, shading, and solar-readiness notes
- Documents, drawings, and allowances to request in writing

How this helps before you hire a builder

Many homeowners start by collecting photos and floor plans. That is helpful, but it is not enough. A green home plan also needs clear performance goals and a list of system choices to discuss with each builder.

This checklist helps you slow down and ask practical questions. For example, what level of insulation do you want, how airtight should the home be, what kind of ventilation system fits your climate, and do you want to plan for net-zero readiness even if you do not install solar right away.

It can also help you compare builders more fairly. If you give the same checklist and goals to each builder, you are more likely to get proposals that are easier to review side by side. You still need to confirm scope, materials, testing, schedule, and price in writing with a licensed builder.

If you want help finding companies to talk to, get matched and compare builders near you.

What questions and documents it helps you organize

The checklist is also a worksheet. You can use it to gather the information builders usually need for early conversations and budgeting.

1. Your lot or land details, if you have them
2. Your wish list, room count, and target size
3. Your priorities, such as low energy use, better indoor air, all-electric systems, or passive-house ideas
4. Your must-have documents, such as surveys, site photos, sketches, and inspiration images

It also gives you question prompts, such as whether the builder will discuss insulation R-value by assembly, window performance by climate, HVAC sizing, ventilation type, air sealing details, and testing. For more background, see systems, learn, and costs.

How to use it with EverGrain Built

Start by filling out the checklist on your own or with your family. Keep it simple. Mark what you know, circle what you are unsure about, and note where you want builder guidance.

Then use it during calls and meetings. Ask each builder to explain their approach in plain language. If one builder suggests different insulation, windows, ventilation, or mechanical systems, write down why. That makes it easier to compare experience and fit, not just price.

EverGrain Built is a free matching and guide service. We are not the builder, architect, or contractor. We help you organize your project and connect with experienced green custom-home builders so you can compare options and choose who to hire. Learn more at how it works or get matched.