New funding schemes help landlords and homeowners become more energy efficient

Green Homes Grant in England 

In England, cash grants worth up to £5,000 are now available to private landlords and homeowners across England under the Government’s Green Homes Grant, launched on 30th September 2020. 

In the main, the grants are designed to cover around two-thirds of the total cost of the energy efficiency improvements, up to a ceiling of £5,000 per household. 

For example, improvements costing £3,000 would cost just £1,000 for property landlords, with the remaining £2,000 provided in Green Homes Grant vouchers. 

However, the timeframe for the improvements to be made under the scheme is by no means indefinite. Landlords and homeowners have until 31st March 2021 to complete the work and claim for the vouchers. 

To qualify for the scheme, which was unveiled during July’s Summer Economic Update, landlords must be installing ‘primary’ improvements, spanning all kinds of insulation and low-carbon heating systems such as ground and air source heat pumps and biomass boilers. 

If at least one primary improvement is to be made, landlords can also claim for a ‘secondary’ improvement, such as double or triple glazing, smart heating controls and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). 

Those looking to check for their eligibility can use the Simple Energy Advice checker and complete the online questionnaire to find out more. 

Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme 

In Scotland, landlords and homeowners can avail themselves of the Home Energy Scotland loan scheme, as well as the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme for primary and secondary energy efficiency improvements. 

Nest scheme in Wales 

Landlords and homeowners across Wales can also utilise the Nest scheme, which can potentially yield free insulation and boilers for those on means-tested benefits or low incomes. 

Northern Ireland Boiler Replacement Scheme 

Landlords and homeowners in Northern Ireland are also able to receive up to £1,000 towards brand-new boilers. The Boiler Replacement Scheme is open to all properties with boilers older than 15 years and with combined household incomes of less than £40,000. 

Private tenants in Northern Ireland earning less than £20,000 may also be able to utilise the Affordable Warmth Scheme to receive up to £7,500 in energy efficiency improvements. 

Date published 6 Oct 2020 | Last updated 7 Oct 2020