Why insulation schemes are still a great way to cut bills – you just need help finding a trusted installer
You may have seen the headlines this week about how tens of thousands of homes are in need of repairs after insulation work done under two Government schemes was botched.
The National Audit Office (NAO) says 98% of homes that had external wall insulation installed under the ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Schemes have problems that will lead to damp and mould if left unaddressed, while nearly a third of the homes that were given internal insulation also need fixing.
But it’s important to not throw out the baby with the bathwater. The aims behind these retrofit (upgrading existing buildings with new technology) and insulation schemes remain crucial to those in fuel poverty, despite the recent issues with work done.
If you’re interested in taking advantage of a scheme like this, the key thing is to get advice which will help you secure a trusted installer. Our Energy Team can do that for you – our free, independent advice can help steer you through the maze.
Still a great way to cut bills and carbon emissions
The NAO has suggested that around 22,000-23,000 homes that have utilised the schemes have been affected by faulty instillation. The Government will now be offering a free audit to consumers, and installers are to be forced to remedy the issues free of charge.
The Government has also promised tougher oversight and clearer accountability between the different bodies involved — including Ofgem, TrustMark, and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). Poorly performing contractors can now be suspended or removed from future schemes, and quality checks are expected to be tightened.
In spite of the recent issues, insulation and retrofit schemes remain one of the most effective ways to cut bills and reduce carbon emissions. A well-insulated home can save hundreds of pounds a year on heating, while also reducing exposure to cold and damp.
The principal behind ECO (the Energy Company Obligation scheme) is a good one. It shares the responsibility for tackling fuel poverty and energy inefficiency between households, suppliers and Government. By focusing on energy-saving measures rather than short-term financial relief, the scheme helps people save money year after year, while also contributing to wider environmental goals.
How to get help
To be eligible for the ECO scheme you must beclaiming certain benefits and live in private housing or living in social housing. If you own your house, it must have an energy efficiency rating of D, E, F or G to be eligible; for renters this rating would be E, F or G. For any assistance with finding out what schemes you may be eligible for, or for help finding out your EPC rating, you can contact our specialist Energy Team on 0800 448 0721 or request advice through our online form.
We can support you with:
- Understanding your energy options
- Finding help with bills or usage
- Free, confidential advice tailored to you
We can also help you make sure you’re not missing out on benefits you’re entitled to and find support for you if you’re in debt.
Our team can make sure you’re getting the best prices and discounts and talk to your supplier on your behalf to help you solve any issues.
We’ll help you explore new ways to save money on your energy, including solar panels, heat pumps, upgrades to your boiler and making sure you’re not losing heat from your home.
Chat to us and we can go through your options and help you make the best decision for you. We’ll help you fill in forms and write letters if needed. If English is not your first language, we can get a translator for you.