Great British Insulation Scheme Octopus

Great British Insulation Scheme & Octopus Energy: A Complete Guide for UK Landlords and Property Managers

As the UK government intensifies efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) has emerged as a cornerstone initiative. This scheme, formerly known as ECO+ (Energy Company Obligation Plus), aims to help millions of homes across the country become warmer, greener, and more affordable to run. For landlords, property managers, and businesses, understanding the scheme—especially in partnership with trusted providers like Octopus Energy—is crucial for compliance, cost savings, and tenant satisfaction.

At Eco Approach Ltd, we specialise in helping property professionals navigate compliance and safety regulations, including those related to energy efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what the Great British Insulation Scheme is, how Octopus Energy fits in, and how you can leverage these opportunities to future-proof your property portfolio.

What is the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)?

Launched in 2023, the Great British Insulation Scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to upgrade the energy efficiency of UK homes. Its primary focus is on installing insulation measures—such as loft, cavity wall, and solid wall insulation—in properties that need them most.

Key Objectives:

– Reduce household energy bills by improving home insulation
– Cut carbon emissions in line with the UK’s net-zero targets
– Support vulnerable and low-income households as well as those in council tax bands A-D in England (A-E in Wales and Scotland)

The scheme is part of the wider Energy Company Obligation (ECO) framework, which requires major energy suppliers to fund energy-saving improvements in eligible homes.

Who is Eligible for the Great British Insulation Scheme?

Eligibility is broader than previous energy efficiency schemes. There are two main eligibility routes:

1. Low-Income Group
– Households receiving means-tested benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit)
– Properties with an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of D or below

2. General Group
– Homes in Council Tax bands A-D (England), A-E (Scotland & Wales)
– Properties with an EPC rating of D or below

Landlords and property managers: If your tenants receive qualifying benefits or your property falls within the eligible council tax bands and EPC ratings, you can apply for insulation measures under GBIS.

What Insulation Measures are Covered?

The scheme funds a range of insulation upgrades, including:

– Loft insulation
– Cavity wall insulation
– Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
– Pitched roof insulation
– Flat roof insulation
– Underfloor insulation
– Room-in-roof insulation

These improvements can significantly enhance energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and lower energy bills for tenants.

How Does Octopus Energy Fit In?

Octopus Energy is one of the UK’s leading energy suppliers and an approved delivery partner for the Great British Insulation Scheme. They have committed to making the application and installation process as seamless as possible for eligible households—including landlords and property managers.

Octopus Energy’s Role:

– Managing applications for eligible customers
– Coordinating surveys and assessments to determine the right insulation measures
– Arranging installation through accredited installers
– Providing support and guidance throughout the process

By partnering with Octopus Energy, property owners can ensure that insulation upgrades are carried out to high standards, in compliance with government regulations.

Benefits for Landlords, Property Managers, and Businesses

1. Regulatory Compliance
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) require all privately rented properties to have an EPC rating of E or above. The government has proposed tightening these rules, with talk of a minimum C rating for new tenancies by 2028. GBIS helps you get ahead of the curve.

2. Reduced Operational Costs
Insulation upgrades can lower energy bills for tenants, making your properties more attractive and reducing the risk of rent arrears due to high utility costs.

3. Enhanced Property Value
Energy-efficient properties are more appealing to buyers and renters. Upgrades funded by GBIS can increase your property’s market value and rental yield.

4. Simplified Compliance Management
By working with a single partner like Eco Approach Ltd, you can coordinate all necessary compliance checks—EPCs, gas safety, electrical testing, and insulation upgrades—under one roof.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check Eligibility
– Review your property’s EPC rating and council tax band.
– Confirm if tenants receive qualifying benefits.

2. Get an EPC Assessment
– If you don’t have a recent EPC, arrange one through Eco Approach Ltd to establish your property’s current rating and suitability for insulation measures.

3. Apply via Octopus Energy or an Approved Provider
– Submit an application on the Octopus Energy website or via an accredited partner.
– Provide necessary documentation (EPC, proof of benefits, etc.).

4. Property Survey
– An accredited surveyor will assess your property to recommend suitable insulation measures.

5. Installation
– Approved installers will complete the work, usually at little or no cost to the property owner or tenant.

6. Post-Installation Compliance
– Update your EPC to reflect the improved energy efficiency.
– Maintain records for regulatory and tenant communication purposes.

Why Choose Eco Approach Ltd for GBIS Compliance?

At Eco Approach Ltd, we go beyond one-off inspections. As your ongoing compliance partner, we:

– Coordinate EPC assessments and identify properties eligible for GBIS
– Liaise with scheme partners like Octopus Energy to streamline applications
– Manage all compliance documentation for your portfolio
– Advise on future regulatory changes to keep your properties ahead of the curve

Our nationwide network of qualified engineers and assessors ensures consistent, compliant results—no matter the size of your property portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Great British Insulation Scheme free?
Most insulation measures under GBIS are fully funded for eligible households. Some may require a small contribution, depending on property type and required works.

Can landlords apply on behalf of tenants?
Yes, landlords can apply if their property and tenants meet the eligibility criteria. Tenant consent may be required for access and installation.

Will insulation upgrades disrupt my tenants?
Most installations are completed quickly and with minimal disruption. Communication and scheduling are coordinated to suit both landlords and tenants.

Do I need to update my EPC after insulation?
Yes. After insulation is installed, updating your EPC ensures compliance and demonstrates improved energy performance.

Take the Next Step Towards Compliance and Efficiency

The Great British Insulation Scheme—with delivery partners like Octopus Energy—represents a unique opportunity for UK landlords and property managers to future-proof their properties, reduce costs, and meet evolving regulatory requirements.

Eco Approach Ltd is here to guide you through every step, from eligibility checks to compliance management. Contact us today to arrange an EPC assessment, discuss your portfolio, or start your GBIS application.

Stay compliant, protect your investment, and deliver better homes with Eco Approach Ltd—your trusted partner in property compliance and sustainability.

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