What is the Great British Insulation Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a newly established government initiative designed to assist individuals in insulating their homes, enhancing energy efficiency, and reducing energy expenses. This program is set to launch in July 2023 and will operate until March 2026.
Formerly known as ECO+, this ambitious £1 billion scheme aims to aid approximately 300,000 households across the nation by covering a portion of the costs associated with installing new home insulation. By participating in the scheme, consumers can anticipate saving an estimated £300 to £400 annually on their energy bills.
The scheme will prioritize support for individuals with the lowest incomes while expanding assistance to a broader range of households residing in the least energy-efficient homes in the country. Specifically, this includes homes with an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or below, as well as those falling within lower Council Tax bands (A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales).
Â
As a result, more people, particularly those facing financial difficulties, will have the opportunity to receive financial aid to enhance the energy efficiency of their homes. This, in turn, will effectively decrease household energy consumption and heating expenses.
Under this scheme, energy suppliers will be obligated to assist customers in reducing their heating bills by implementing energy efficiency measures like loft and cavity wall insulation. Depending on the specific measure and any property-related issues, the scheme may cover the entire cost of installation or offer insulation options at a reduced contribution.
The with the scheme now officially launched, households will be able to determine their eligibility by visiting GOV.UK or contacting a participating installers. Eligible individuals will then be contacted to arrange a comprehensive survey of their homes and coordinate the necessary installation procedures.
You will qualify for free insulation if:
Your home is in Council Tax band A – D
Your home must be in council tax bands A – D to qualify, there are no exceptions.
Click this link if you would like to find your council tax band:Â https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands
Your homes EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is rated D – G
The EPC for the property must be rated D – G otherwise it will not be considered.
If you would like to find your EPC rating:Â https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate
Your home requires either cavity wall or loft insulation
The scheme will allow you to either have cavity wall insulation or loft insulation for free. It wil only cover one or the other.
Your cavities should be empty or your loft insulation to be less than 100mm deep (height of joists)
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m a Landlord, do I qualify?
Yes. The scheme is based on the home itself and as long as the home qualifies to the above criteria it will not matter if it is a rental property or personal residence.
I own multiple properties, do they all qualify?
Yes. The scheme is based on the home and as long as the homes qualify to the above criteria they will be able to take advance of the scheme. AS a landlord your properties are required to become an EPC of C or above.
Im a tenant, does this help me?
Yes. The scheme is based on the home and as long as the home qualifies to the above criteria it will can be insulated. You may ask your landlord for permission, but they should agree as this benefits them too.
I earn a good income, do I still qualify?
The scheme is not means tested. You don’t need to be on benefits or have a maximum wage to qualify. As long as the home fits the above criteria it will qualify.
I am in social housing, do I still qualify?
If you live in a council home, a social home or a housing association home this scheme may not be for you. However do let us know as we can pair up with the property management to offer another solution for you both.
What types of insulation are available?
Either cavity wall insulation or loft insulation, the scheme will only cover one or the other. Your cavities should be empty of cavity wall insulation to qualify Your loft insulation is to be less than 100mm deep (height of joists) to qualify
APPLY FOR YOUR FREE INSULATION
How to get started?
01.
Fill out the below form
The details of the form will be sent to a region specific installer who will data match your application and get in touch with the next steps. There is no obligation to go ahead or use this installer.
02.
Book in a home survey
A home survey will have to take place to ensure criteria is met and the home is suitable for insulation. This give you the chance to learn more about the products and what insulation best suits you.
03.
Book an install date
Once the survey has taken place the installer will set an install date and make the claims through the scheme. You wont have to process the application. Simple.
ABOUT YOUR FREE INSULATION
Cavity Wall Insulation
Most of the heat within the home is lost through the walls. Using modern cavity wall insulation such EPS Bonded Beads you can add efficiency to lower your bills, improve comfort and reduce condensation.
If your walls are cavity walls which most homes built since the 1920s are, then its likely your home maybe suitable.
Loft Insulation
Many lofts were only filled with insulation to the top of the joists at a height of 100mm. Over time the loft insulation crushes itself and becomes less high. A loft top up to the industry minimum of 270mm will vastly improve the efficiency and comfort of your home.
Modern loft insulations are no longer itchy like in the past.