All private households can apply for grants for installing loft and cavity wall insulation. Although loft insulation is a DIY job, it might be cheaper to apply for a grant and have the work done for you.
There are local, Government and fuel company grants which are all slightly different and keep changing, so it’s all very confusing. However, by arranging for a free survey through the local company Book My Survey a local, independent surveyor will call and direct you to the most appropriate grant and installer for your circumstances. Alternatively, you can search for offers and grants on the Energy Saving Trust website by clicking here.
Simplified, the rules for grants are:
- Loft insulation grants are available if your current loft insulation is less than 150mm (6 inches) deep.
- Cavity wall insulation grants are available if your house has a suitable cavity wall
- If the householder (i.e. the applicant or their spouse or partner) is over 70, the work will be carried out free of charge.
- The work is also free for householders who have a child under 16 and who receive certain benefits, such as income support or housing benefit. The same applies to pregnant women.
- If you or anyone in your household receives certain income related or disability benefits the work will be carried out free of charge.
- Anyone else can have the work carried out at a heavily subsidised price, currently around £150-250 each measure for a typical 3-bedroom semi-detached property.
How to apply
It is best to apply for grants from Book My Survey or directly with local installers for the following reasons:
- They will undertake a survey and direct you to the best grant for your circumstances.
- Using a local company supports the local economy and reduces travel costs, time, and carbon emissions. If you apply to fuel companies or to the Government Warm Front scheme, you may get an installer from further affield.
If you are a Council or Housing Association tenant, ask your landlord about insulation, as they are responsible for the maintenance and thermal efficiency of your home. If you are the tenant of a private landlord, you can apply for these grants as a tenant, but you will need your landlord’s permission. If you do not qualify for free insulation, ask your landlord if he or she will pay for it.
Benefits qualifying for free insulation under the Warm Front scheme:
- Disablement Benefit
(You must also receive Constant Attendance Allowance) - Child Tax Credit
(Annual income of less than £16,040, including a disability element) - Working Family Tax Credit
(Annual income of less than £16,040) - Disability Living Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Income Based Job Seekers Allowance
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Benefit
- Disabled Persons Tax Credit
- War Disablement Pension
(You must also receive Mobility Supplement / Constant Attendance Allowance) - Attendance Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
(You must also receive Constant Attendance Allowance)