FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 23, 2025

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - The Charlottesville Department of Utilities is excited to launch a free Attic Insulation Self-Assessment. Developed by Utilities, and working in partnership with the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP), this self-assessment is a great resource to help the community better understand their attic’s insulation needs and complements Utilities’ other home envelope improvement resources.

According to Energy Star®, 90% of U.S. homes are under-insulated, meaning many homes in Charlottesville could be good candidates for an attic insulation upgrade. The Attic Insulation Self-Assessment is a valuable tool in assessing an attic’s current insulation level and can help in determining what insulation upgrades the attic may need. These measures can improve home energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and increase home comfort in all seasons by keeping a home warm in winter and cool in summer. Open to homeowners, and renters with landlord approval, the self-assessment is available to all Charlottesville Utilities customers. Eligible homes include single-family, duplexes, and townhomes, with a focus on older homes. The Attic Insulation Self-Assessment is 100% free to use, and can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or computer!

Customers interested in the self-assessment can access it through a customized online portal. The self-assessment gathers basic information about the customer and their home and provides easy step-by-step instructions on completing and submitting the assessment. Once submitted, staff from LEAP will analyze the information about the customer’s attic and provide a free preliminary evaluation for attic insulation. The evaluation includes guidance to help maximize the attic’s energy efficiency potential, and a preliminary cost estimate for any recommended upgrades. If the customer decides to pursue the recommended upgrades, they will then schedule an in-person evaluation with LEAP to determine the exact work needed and the final cost. A 30% federal insulation tax credit is available, as well attic insulation-related rebates from Charlottesville Utilities for qualified customers.

More information on the Attic Insulation Self-Assessment, including accessing the self-assessment portal or any of Utilities’ other energy efficiency resources, can be found at www.charlottesville.gov/utilityincentives.

Media Contact: 
Ryan Willis 
Utilities Outreach Program Coordinator 
434-970-3686 
willisr@charlottesville.gov