Eugene adopts 2027 home-sale energy score rule

Eugene’s City Council voted 6-1 to require covered home sellers to obtain a Home Energy Score assessment and disclose the score and report in real estate listings and to prospective buyers. The rule is scheduled to take effect April 28, 2027; certified assessors will evaluate features such as insulation, windows, and heating and cooling systems, assigning a score from 1 to 10. The city estimates assessments will cost $150 to $250 and take about an hour, and plans to help eligible low-income sellers cover the cost while training additional assessors. Supporters say the policy will help buyers understand likely energy use and encourage efficiency improvements that can lower utility bills and emissions. Opponent Councilor Mike Clark argued that the requirement adds costs for sellers and questioned whether it serves buyers’ interests.