UK Government covering homeowners home improvement costs with “Green Grant”
What is the green grant?
The Green Grant is a £2billion funding pot available to property owners looking to make energy-saving home improvements.
The Government-funded scheme allows homeowners and landlords in England to apply for vouchers worth up to two-thirds of the cost of upgrading the energy efficiency of their homes.
The value an individual can receive from the grant is capped at two-thirds of the expense, up to £5,000 generally. However, some households with low incomes will be eligible for 100% funding, up to a maximum of £10,000.
The grant is available up to 31st March 2022
Why was it introduced?
There are two major reasons for the introduction of the Green Grant. The Grant is intended to help households save money on their energy bills; while also protecting and creating ‘green jobs’ in the installation and supply chain.
What can you get under the green grant?
The grant can be used for a range of home improvements that will work to improve the households energy efficiency. Below are a few examples of claimable home improvements:
· Floor, Wall and Roof Insulation
· Low carbon heating
· Heating controls
· Draught Proofing
To find out exactly what you might be able to claim fill in the linked questionnaire.
How much can you get
Vouchers will cover two-thirds of the cost of eligible improvements, up to a maximum contribution of £5,000.
If the homeowner receives qualified benefits, they will be entitled to a voucher that covers 100% of the cost of improvements, up to a maximum of £10,000.
How can I apply
There are 4 steps that must be taken to receive the vouchers
1. Check eligibility
2. Check what energy efficiency or low carbon heat improvements may be suitable for your home
3. Find certified installers
4. Apply for vouchers
In order to apply for the grant, the homeowner must receive a quote from at least one Green Home Grant registered installer.
The paper quote will need to be shared when applying on the Gov site. If the quote seems too high, a scheme administrator will ask for a second quote.
A separate voucher will be issued for each approved installation.
Once the voucher is issued the installer can begin work.
Experiences with the Green Grant so far...
Many homeowners and landlords have reported struggling to access the grant, with waiting times of between three and six months. The primary issue seems to be a lack of registered installed to offer quotes and perform the service.
There have been talks unregisters subcontractors coming into assist, which considering the UK has a huge workforce of subcontractors would most likely save the issue. Failing to extend the scheme to unregistered subcontracts, there has been a massive rise in 'Green Installation' course applications. Therefore, we may have more qualified green installers working to perform all of the granted vouchers very soon.