Good thermal insulation and a change of heating system are good for the environment and usually also for the homeowner's wallet. However, the choice of renovation measures and funding sources should be carefully considered. There are numerous online tools and advisory services that owner-occupiers can use to obtain independent information. The step-by-step guide from the “Building Dialogue” research project provides guidance and outlines the most important stages.

The first step is for homeowners to get an initial overview of their energy consumption and possible measures. This is based on free online tools such as the Modernization Check by co2online or the KfW renovation calculator (both available in German). The questions and ideas that arise can be evaluated in a free energy consultation in the second step: consumer centers and other advisory services provide information about potential measures, suitable funding opportunities, and the status of municipal heating planning. The question of whether the house is suited for a heat pump is also calculated in this step.

Further information is then gathered, for example on legal requirements and financing. This allows households to be well-prepared for the fourth step – the fee-based energy consultation with a home inspection. With the support of an energy efficiency expert, an individual renovation roadmap is created, which improves funding opportunities and facilitates the implementation of the measures.