Contractor FAQs

What does NCEF do?

NCEF is an independent, nonprofit, community-based lending organization focused on financing home renovations that promote energy efficiency, clean energy alternatives, storm protection, water conservation, and disability products. NCEF provides homeowners with building science expertise, project management, and access to low-cost capital to help identify and finance sustainable home improvement projects.

Is there a fee to become an Approved Contractor?

No. NCEF does not charge any application or annual fees to become an Approved Contractor.

Is there a fee to utilize NCEF’s financing?

No. NCEF does not charge the contractors any fees to use NCEF financing.

How can NCEF help my clients?

NCEF is an alternative financing source for clients who may not qualify for a traditional loan at a bank or through financing programs established through the contractor’s company.

How can NCEF help our business grow?

NCEF gives opportunities to clients who may not qualify for the financing offered by the contractor or traditional banks. As an alternative financing source, more clients may be approved rather than denied. This will increase sales.

How do people apply for the program?

Clients can apply by visiting our online application or by contacting us.

How do I apply to become an Approved Contractor?

Complete the contractor application or contact us.

How do contractors get paid?

Once a loan is approved and closed, the contractor receives a Notice to Proceed (NTP) email and the work can then commence. Once the installation is complete and inspected (if applicable), the contractor submits the final paperwork to NCEF and the payment process begins. Payments are processed on Wednesdays. Refer to the payment schedule provided by the Program Manager(s) for more information. Contractors may receive a check in the mail or, in order to receive payments quicker, submit a Direct Deposit Authorization form.

Does NCEF offer monetary draws to help with upfront project cost?

Yes, but an application for the Contractor Advance Financing has to be completed, submitted, and approved by NCEF management. Specific terms apply. Contact the NCEF office for more details.

Where do you lend? (geographically)

Across the state of Nevada.

Is there an income cap for clients to qualify?

No. Anyone can apply for financing as long as they own the home, have provable income, are current on property taxes, and have disposable income to pay back the loan.

What types of improvements do you finance?

NCEF finances over two dozen types of improvements promoting energy efficiency, clean energy alternatives, and similar products. Some of the top financed products include but are not limited to air conditioners, insulation, roofs, doors, windows, solar water heaters, solar PV, weatherization, and much more.

What are your interest rates?

Interest rates range from 5% – 9.5%. *Interest rates depend on available funding and the terms set by NCEF funders.

How long does the process take for a client to become approved?

The process to become approved can take 24 hours to one week. It all depends on the client response, requested and/or required document submission, and information provided.

Can anyone apply?

Qualifications to apply:

1. Must be the, or one of the, homeowner(s).
2. Must be current  on property taxes.
3. Must have  provable income (wages, retirement, disability, etc.).
4. Must be able to have the disposable income to pay back a loan.

What are the credit criteria for applicants?

NCEF accepts all applications regardless of credit. A co-signer may be required based on credit history or the type of product being financed. A full evaluation is conducted by the underwriting team and a final decision is made based on a combination of factors.

Do contractors receive a referral or finder’s fee per client that is referred and who gets financed?

1. No, not from NCEF.
2. NCEF does,  however, have a Contractor Network that NCEF Approved Contractors can become a part of in order to use our No Dealer/Merchant Fee financing for their customers. This is a service that NCEF provides.
3. If you’d like  more detailed information, please contact the NCEF office.