Introduction
The Standards and Quality Assurance (SQA) module allows NYSERDA and contracted Quality Service Providers (QSPs) to identify projects that are eligible for field or photo inspections. A random sampling of projects are selected for inspection to verify that program and technical requirements have been met. The SQA module allows inspectors to document evidence of any non-conformance through photos and written documentation. Information collected by the inspector is uploaded into the Salesforce QA checklist and an inspection report is generated. The SQA module allows the Contractor/Builder to submit corrective action documentation as needed and for the program implementer (either initiative staff or an external company providing support) to respond.
SQA Process Steps
The diagram below outlines the SQA Process Steps for the complete inspection process. The standard inspection process is outlined in the All Inspections row. Additional requirements for Photo Inspection are outlined in the Photo Inspections Only row. Lastly, if an inspection requires Corrective Actions, this process is included in the Correct Action Required Path. Generally speaking, Inspections without major or critical failures will typically end at the Approve Inspection step in the All Inspections row. If there are any CAR Tasks, the process will include the Corrective Action Required Path.
Inspections
NYSERDA conducts a minimum of three field inspections for each new participating Contractor/Builder. New Contractors/Builders who have not passed three inspections are listed as “Provisional.” When they are in good standing after these inspections, their status updates to “Full.” After a Contractor/Builder receives "Full" status, NYSERDA reviews a random sample of projects for review. Contractors/Builders with a Probationary or Suspended status may have 100% of their projects inspected.
In general, users can only schedule inspections for completed projects. However, Salesforce can allow inspections on in-progress projects if the program/initiative requires.
Email Communications
Contractors and builders will always receive email communication about SQA inspections. When NYSERDA schedules a project for SQA, we will send an email to the contractor with the inspection date, time, and address. NYSERDA automatically sends emails for cancelled and rescheduled inspections. The QSP QA Manager - the designated manager from the QSP QA agency - approves and distributes inspection reports to the project applicant. In rare instances a Contractor/Builder may not be notified of an upcoming inspection upon the customer’s request.
Quality Scoring
The SQA Salesforce module assigns a Quality Score (on a scale of 1 to 5) based on the inspection results. This score will be provided in the Inspection report that is generated after the Inspector completes the inspection. NYSERDA provides Contractors/Builders a link to the inspection report through Salesforce.
| SQA Quality Score | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 or 2 | Signifies a Failed Inspection with major and/or critical deficiencies. The Contractor/Builder must provide evidence to NYSERDA that these deficiencies outlined in the Inspection Report were resolved. Inspections in this score range may also contain minor or incidental deficiencies that will still need resolution, though the Contractor/Builder is not required to provide evidence for resolution of these issues. The inspection score may be updated if the Major and/or critical deficiencies are contested and NYSERDA approves. |
| 3, 4 or 5 | Signifies a Passed Inspection with only minor or incidental deficiencies. The Contractor/Builder must correct these issues but is not required to provide evidence to NYSERDA. |