Washington · By role
Tier 2 for property managers
Last updated · Checked against primary sources
Short answer
Can a property manager handle a Tier 2 filing?
Yes, most of it. With the owner's authorization, a manager can request utility data, build the Portfolio Manager record, and prepare and submit in the Clean Buildings Portal once the owner grants shared access. The owner still signs Form A and the Energy Management Plan, along with the energy manager and a Qualified Energy Manager.
Key factsChecked November 11, 2026
- Portal access
- Owner grants shared access to a manager CBPS 017
- Form A signers
- Owner, energy manager and a QEM CBPS 017
- Exemptions
- Owner or authorized representative; no QEM Commerce Tier 2 page
- Utility data
- Owners or authorized representatives may request it RCW 19.27A.170
- Scope
- Building by building, not by portfolio Commerce Tier 2 page
What a manager can do, and what only the owner can
| Task | Manager | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Request utility data and set up Portfolio Manager | Yes, as an authorized representative | Signs any release the utility requires |
| Prepare and submit in the Clean Buildings Portal | Yes, once the owner grants shared access | Grants access |
| Exemption or extension application | Yes, as an authorized representative; no QEM needed for an exemption | Responsible for accuracy |
| Energy Management Plan and O&M program | Often written and run by the manager | Signs the plan every year |
| Form A | Can be the designated energy manager | Signs, with the energy manager and a QEM |
Before you start a building
- Find the building in the Tier 2 Data Pool in the Clean Buildings Portal and confirm or deny ownership there.
- Get the owner's written authorization for each utility. PSE's EnergyCAP accepts authorized property managers; Tacoma Power requires a release form for representatives.
- Collect existing preventive-maintenance logs and service contracts. They are the proof for the O&M program.
Running a portfolio
- One building at a time
- Exemptions and filings are building by building, not by portfolio.
- Sort first
- Run each building through the Tier 2 checker; anything over 50,000 sq ft of commercial space is Tier 1.
- Match utilities
- Group buildings by utility, since each has its own data steps.
- Watch the clock
- Exemption requests are due about January 1, 2027; reports on July 1, 2027.
Working with us
We prepare the package and coordinate a partner Qualified Energy Manager's review and signature. Send a building list for a written quote per building, with volume pricing for portfolios. Request a quote.
Steps and figures on this page were read on the linked sources on November 11, 2026.
Clean Buildings Associates is a private company. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Washington State Department of Commerce, or any utility. Utility programs and steps change; confirm on the utility's page before you act.
Want it done for you?
Send the address and floor area. We confirm coverage, estimate the incentive and quote a flat fee per building.
Reply within 1 business day. No call required.