How Landlords can take advantage of the new government Green Homes Grant

The new government Green Homes Grant will give up to £5,000 in vouchers to landlords to make their homes more energy-efficient. This scheme is part of a £3b investment in green technology to promote energy efficiency, as well as to help boost the economy during the coronavirus pandemic by creating jobs.

If you are looking to increase the value of your properties by upgrading its energy efficiency, the vouchers will be available from 20^th September. However, they must be redeemed by 31^st March 2021, and with steps to take prior to application, it is advisable to act fairly quickly.

With much confusion around the scheme, We have partnered with Smartstone Energy Solutions who have created an advisory specifically to help guide landlords through the process.

What improvements do the vouchers cover?

 The available measures are split into ‘Primary’ and ‘Secondary’ measures. The voucher must be used to install at least 1 primary measure, covering:

• Solid wall insulation
• Underfloor insulation
• Cavity wall insulation
• Loft insulation
• Flat roof insulation
• Room in roof insulation
• Insulating a park home
• Air or ground source heat pump
• Solar thermal
• Biomass boilers

You cannot use the vouchers to help pay for works that are already installed in your property, however, they can be used to ‘top up’ insulation if you don’t already have the recommended amount.

If you install at least 1 of the primary measures above, you can also get additional vouchers for ‘secondary’ measures covering:

• Draught proofing
• Double/triple glazing
• Secondary glazing
• External energy efficient doors
• Heating controls
• Hot water tank thermostats & insulation

The amount you can get for secondary measures cannot exceed the amount you received for the primary measure.

How much can you get?

The vouchers will cover up to two-thirds of the cost with a maximum contribution of £5,000.

Who can apply?

Social and private landlords in England are eligible to apply for the scheme.

New-built properties are not covered under the scheme.

How can you apply?

Prior to application, which opens on the 20^th September, a survey of your properties will need to be carried out to determine appropriate home improvements covered under the scheme. You will also need a quote from an accredited installer, and have it approved before you can claim the voucher.

If your properties are occupied by tenants claiming benefits or have children in full-time education, other avenues of funding are also available through the ECO3, Help to Heat, LA Flex and GHG schemes.

Smartstone Energy Solutions will guide you through the process, arrange a survey of your properties, and apply for funding to ensure you claim your total entitlement.

Find out how much funding you are entitled to by completing the contact form below: