The Great British Insulation Scheme
The Great British Insulation Scheme: What Landlords, Property Managers, and Businesses Need to Know
As energy prices soar and the UK government intensifies its commitment to net zero targets, improving energy efficiency across the nation’s housing stock has never been more critical. One of the most significant initiatives in this effort is the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), designed to help households, landlords, and property professionals upgrade their properties, reduce energy waste, and cut costs. At [Eco Approach Ltd](https://ecoapproach.co.uk), we’re dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complexities of property compliance and energy efficiency. Here’s everything you need to know about the Great British Insulation Scheme, how it works, who qualifies, and how Eco Approach can support your compliance journey.
What is the Great British Insulation Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme, previously known as ECO+, is a government-backed initiative launched in 2023 to accelerate the insulation of homes across the UK. The scheme is part of a broader strategy to tackle fuel poverty, improve energy efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions in line with the UK’s legally binding climate targets.
Key goals of the scheme include:
– Helping households save money on energy bills.
– Reducing heat loss and improving comfort.
– Lowering the carbon footprint of the nation’s housing stock.
– Supporting landlords and property managers in meeting evolving regulatory requirements.
The scheme is expected to run until 2026, with a budget of around £1 billion, aiming to insulate hundreds of thousands of homes over its lifetime.
Who is Eligible for the Great British Insulation Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme is designed to be inclusive, targeting both vulnerable households and those in the “able-to-pay” bracket. The eligibility criteria are broader than previous energy efficiency schemes, making it accessible to a wide range of property owners and tenants.
Eligibility categories include:
1. Low-Income and Vulnerable Households
– Households in receipt of means-tested benefits (such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.).
– Those identified as vulnerable to cold due to age, health, or other factors.
2. General Households in Lower Council Tax Bands
– Properties in Council Tax bands A-D in England (A-E in Scotland and Wales).
– Both owner-occupiers and private renters can qualify.
– No need to be in receipt of benefits.
3. Private Landlords and Social Landlords
– Landlords with eligible tenants can apply to have their properties insulated.
– Social housing providers can also participate, subject to certain criteria.
Note: The property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below to qualify for most measures under the scheme.
What Types of Insulation Are Covered?
The Great British Insulation Scheme primarily focuses on “single measure” insulation upgrades, meaning it funds one main insulation improvement per property. The most common options include:
– Cavity Wall Insulation: Filling the gap between external walls to reduce heat loss.
– Loft Insulation: Adding or topping up insulation in the roof space.
– Solid Wall Insulation: Both internal and external options for older properties without cavity walls.
– Pitched Roof Insulation: For properties with non-standard roof spaces.
– Flat Roof Insulation: For homes with flat or low-pitched roofs.
The scheme may also cover other cost-effective insulation measures where appropriate.
Why Insulation Matters for Compliance and Cost Savings
1. Reducing Energy Bills
Insulation is one of the most effective ways to cut energy costs. According to the Energy Saving Trust, proper loft and cavity wall insulation can save the average household between £200 and £600 per year, depending on property type and energy usage.
2. Meeting EPC Requirements
Since April 2020, all privately rented properties in the UK must have an EPC rating of at least E. The government is consulting on raising this minimum to C for new tenancies by 2025 and for all tenancies by 2028. Insulation is a key factor in improving EPC ratings and future-proofing your property portfolio.
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Landlords and property managers are under increasing pressure to ensure their properties are energy efficient, not only to meet EPC requirements but also to comply with the evolving Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and other building regulations.
4. Tenant Satisfaction and Retention
Warmer, more energy-efficient homes are more comfortable, healthier, and attractive to tenants, helping reduce void periods and improve tenant retention.
How to Apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme
Applying for the GBIS is straightforward, but it’s important to ensure your property and tenants meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s how the process typically works:
1. Check Eligibility: Review the criteria or contact a registered installer or compliance partner such as Eco Approach Ltd for a pre-assessment.
2. Arrange an EPC Assessment: If your property doesn’t have a recent EPC, arrange for an assessment to confirm eligibility and identify the most cost-effective insulation measures.
3. Choose an Approved Installer: Work with a government-approved installer who can carry out the insulation work to the required standards.
4. Apply for Funding: Your installer will help you complete the application and secure funding under the scheme.
5. Install and Certify: Once approved, the insulation is installed, and you’ll receive certification confirming compliance and improved energy efficiency.
How Eco Approach Ltd Supports Landlords and Property Professionals
At [Eco Approach Ltd](https://ecoapproach.co.uk), we specialise in simplifying property compliance and energy efficiency for landlords, property managers, agents, and businesses across the UK. Here’s how we can help you make the most of the Great British Insulation Scheme:
1. Comprehensive EPC Assessments
We provide fast, reliable Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments nationwide, helping you identify insulation opportunities and ensure your properties meet current and future requirements.
2. Regulatory Compliance Management
Our team coordinates all legally required inspections and certifications, including gas safety, electrical testing, fire risk assessments, and more. We help you stay ahead of changing legislation and avoid costly penalties.
3. Project Coordination and Quality Assurance
We work with a network of qualified, government-approved engineers and assessors to deliver consistent, compliant results at scale. Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, we handle the logistics so you can focus on your business.
4. Single Point of Contact
Rather than dealing with multiple contractors and compliance providers, Eco Approach acts as your single, reliable partner for ongoing property compliance management.
5. Tailored Support for Landlords and Agents
We understand the unique challenges faced by landlords and agents. Our services are designed to minimise disruption, maximise cost savings, and ensure a smooth path to compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Great British Insulation Scheme free?
A: For many eligible households, the scheme covers the full cost of insulation. Some “able-to-pay” households may be required to make a small contribution, depending on the measure and property type.
Q: Can I apply for more than one insulation measure?
A: The scheme is primarily designed for single insulation measures per property. However, you may be able to access additional funding through other schemes or at a later date.
Q: What if my property already has some insulation?
A: The scheme can fund “top-ups” if your existing insulation does not meet current standards.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: From initial assessment to installation, the process typically takes a few weeks, depending on demand and property access.
Conclusion
The Great British Insulation Scheme represents a unique opportunity for landlords, property managers, and businesses to future-proof their properties, reduce costs, and comply with increasingly stringent energy efficiency regulations. By partnering with a trusted compliance specialist like Eco Approach Ltd, you can navigate the scheme with confidence, ensuring your properties are insulated, compliant, and ready for the future.
Ready to improve your property’s energy efficiency?
Contact [Eco Approach Ltd](https://ecoapproach.co.uk) today to book an EPC assessment, discuss your eligibility, and take the first step towards a warmer, greener, and more compliant property portfolio.