The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) offers a fantastic opportunity for homeowners and tenants alike to significantly improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce those ever-rising energy bills. This Eco Green Grant article will guide you through everything you need to know about securing free insulation, particularly focusing on loft insulation, and how this government initiative can help you insulate your home and keep it warm.
What is the Great British Insulation Scheme?
A Government Initiative to Help You Save on Energy Bills
Home Insulation Support
The scheme funds insulation improvements such as loft, cavity wall, and solid wall insulation to boost energy efficiency.
Available to More Homes
Unlike ECO4, this scheme is also open to households not on benefits — based on council tax bands and EPC rating.
Lower Bills, Warmer Homes
Proper insulation can cut energy loss by up to 30%, helping reduce heating bills and improve household comfort year-round.
Overview of the GBIS
The Great British Insulation Scheme, often referred to as GBIS, is a newly established government initiative designed to assist individuals in insulating their homes, with a particular emphasis on improving energy efficiency. This program, set to launch in July 2023 and operate until March 2026, was formerly known as ECO+. Under this scheme, energy suppliers will be obligated to assist customers in reducing their heating bills by implementing energy efficiency measures like Loft Insulation Services and cavity wall insulation.
Importance of Loft Insulation
Insulating your home and preventing heat loss from your walls and roof is one of the best things you can do to reduce your energy bills. Insulation helps keep your home warm and can improve indoor air quality through better ventilation. Loft insulation, in particular, is crucial as a significant amount of heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. While insulation can be a large upfront cost that a lot of people can’t afford, the Great British Insulation Scheme offers a lifeline, providing opportunities for free insulation or heavily subsidized home insulation.
How the Government Grants Work
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a government-backed scheme, meaning it is government-funded. The scheme may cover the entire cost of insulation installed or offer insulation options at a reduced contribution, depending on the specific insulation measures and property-related issues. Eligible individuals will be contacted to arrange a comprehensive home survey of their homes and coordinate the necessary installation procedures. If you’re eligible for the scheme, you will receive one insulation upgrade, making it an excellent insulation grant to help insulate your home.
Who is Eligible for the Scheme?
Main Groups That Qualify for the Great British Insulation Scheme
Low-Income Households
If you’re receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Income Support, you likely qualify under the low-income group.
Homes in Council Tax Bands A–D
Even if you’re not on benefits, you may qualify based on your property’s council tax band and EPC rating (usually D or below).
Inefficient Properties
Properties with poor energy performance (typically EPC rating E, F or G) are prioritized for insulation upgrades under the scheme.
Eligibility Criteria Explained
There are two groups who can apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme: a general group and a low-income group. To be eligible for the low-income group, your household must receive qualifying benefits and live in the least energy-efficient housing with an EPC rating of D to G. The scheme is based on the home itself, and as long as the home qualifies, it will not matter if it is a rental property or personal residence. The scheme is not means-tested; you don’t need to be on benefits or have a maximum wage to qualify for this home insulation initiative.
Additionally, for the general group, the home must have an EPC rating of D to G. For private renters, the EPC rating must be in band D or E.
Understanding Low-Income Eligibility
To be eligible for the low-income group under the Great British Insulation Scheme, your household must receive qualifying benefits and have an EPC rating of D to G. This group will be eligible for lower cost or free insulation, and owner-occupied households could receive heating controls too, further helping to reduce your energy bills.
How to Check Your Eligibility
To check if you’re eligible for the Great British Insulation Scheme, you will need the total household income, the type of benefits anyone living in the property receives, and your email address or phone number. You can find your EPC rating by checking your energy performance certificate online or asking your landlord or housing association. Your council tax band can be found on the gov.uk website for England or Wales, or the Scottish Assessors website for Scotland. Once this information is gathered, eligible individuals will then be contacted to arrange a comprehensive home survey of their homes and coordinate the necessary installation procedures based on their Loft Insulation Eligibility.
Types of Insulation Available
Popular Insulation Types Covered Under Government Schemes
Cavity Wall Insulation
Injected into the space between external walls, this helps reduce heat loss and is ideal for homes built after 1920s.
Loft Insulation
One of the most cost-effective upgrades — loft insulation traps heat inside the home, reducing bills and keeping rooms warm.
Solid Wall Insulation
For older homes with no cavity, solid wall insulation is added either internally or externally to significantly boost energy efficiency.
Loft Insulation Options
Loft insulation can be installed through the Great British Insulation Scheme, providing a significant boost to your home’s energy efficiency. For loft insulation, the installer will work in the loft, and you will need to remove any boarding before they arrive. Many lofts were only filled with insulation to the top of the joists at a height of 100mm. A loft top-up to the industry minimum of 270mm will vastly improve the efficiency and comfort of your home, reducing heat loss. Your loft insulation must be less than 100mm deep (height of joists) to qualify for this type of insulation.
Cavity Wall Insulation Benefits
Cavity wall insulation can also be installed through the Great British Insulation Scheme, offering another vital insulation measure. Most of the heat within the home is lost through the walls. Using modern cavity wall insulation such as EPS Bonded Beads can add energy efficiency to lower heating bills, improve comfort, and reduce condensation. You may also qualify for a Cavity Wall Insulation Grant to cover installation costs. For cavity wall insulation, installers will need to drill several holes into the external brickwork of your home, which will be filled with plaster before they leave. Your cavities should be empty of cavity wall insulation to qualify for this free insulation.
Choosing the Right Type of Insulation
If you’re eligible for the scheme, you’ll be able to get either loft or cavity wall insulation fitted, not both together. The installer will let you know the best type of insulation for your home during the in-home survey. The insulation the installer recommends will be based on what will reduce your home’s heat loss the most, saving you the most energy and money, rather than your personal preference, ensuring you get the most energy-efficient solution.
How to Apply for Free Insulation
Quick 3-Step Guide to Claim Your Free Insulation Grant
1. Check Eligibility
Answer a few questions about your income, home type, and heating system to see if you qualify for funding.
2. Book Your Survey
A certified assessor will visit your home to evaluate insulation needs and confirm the best options for your property.
3. Get Installed for Free
Once approved, professional installers complete the job at no cost to you — boosting warmth and lowering bills instantly.
Steps to Apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme
To apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme, you can determine if you are eligible by visiting GOV.UK or by contacting one of the participating installers. The initial step involves completing an application form with your details. This information will then be securely transmitted to a region-specific installer who will conduct a data match with your application and reach out to you to guide you through the subsequent stages. Following this, a crucial home survey will be arranged to ensure that all necessary criteria are met and that your home is structurally suitable for the chosen insulation. Once the home survey has been successfully completed, the installer will set a definitive installation date and process all the necessary claims through the scheme, alleviating you from the burden of handling the application process directly.
Local Grants and Support
Beyond the national framework of the Great British Insulation Scheme, it’s worth noting that organizations like Eco Energy Grant are actively working throughout the UK. Their mission is to assist both owned and rented properties in significantly improving their home energy efficiency. Furthermore, platforms such as EcoGreenGrant.co.uk are designed to simplify the process for UK homeowners to access various free energy-efficient home improvements, often through established government schemes like ECO4, complementing the support provided by the Great British Insulation Scheme and similar insulation grants.
Installer Recommendations
When you apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme, you can rest assured that a trusted installer will be assigned to perform the necessary in-home survey and subsequent installation. For instance, reputable energy suppliers like Octopus Energy, along with their trusted partners, are committed to installing only loft insulation or cavity wall insulation under this particular scheme. These Insulation Installation Services are carefully selected to ensure high-quality workmanship and adherence to the scheme’s guidelines, ensuring that your home insulation is installed effectively and efficiently, contributing to greater energy efficiency and reduced energy bills.
Understanding Insulation Grants
What Insulation Grants Cover and Why They Matter for UK Homes
What Are They?
Insulation grants are government-funded programs that help homeowners and tenants improve energy efficiency at no or low cost.
What’s Included?
Grants may cover loft insulation, cavity wall, solid wall, or underfloor insulation — depending on your property and energy rating.
Why Use Them?
Insulation grants reduce heat loss, lower bills, improve comfort, and support the UK’s Net Zero goals — all at little or no cost to you.
What is an Insulation Grant?
An insulation grant is a government-funded scheme specifically designed to provide financial assistance to eligible groups of households, enabling them to install various types of insulation in their homes. The primary objective of these insulation grants is to help households save a substantial amount of money on their energy bills by improving their home’s energy efficiency. Depending on the specific insulation measures and the household’s circumstances, the scheme may either cover the entire cost of the insulation installed or offer options for insulation at a significantly reduced contribution, making home insulation more accessible.
Government-Backed Scheme Features
The Great British Insulation Scheme stands as a prominent government-backed scheme and a significant government initiative. It is meticulously designed to assist individuals in insulating their homes, thereby enhancing overall energy efficiency and contributing to a substantial reduction in energy expenses. This comprehensive scheme aims to support approximately 300,000 households across the nation. Under the provisions of this scheme, energy suppliers are mandated to assist their customers in reducing their heating bills by implementing essential energy efficiency measures, such as providing loft insulation and cavity wall insulation.
Insulation Grant Application Process
Households interested in receiving support through the Great British Insulation Scheme can easily determine their eligibility by visiting GOV.UK or by directly contacting a participating installer. If a household is deemed eligible for support, their designated energy supplier will proactively reach out to them. The energy supplier will then arrange for a thorough assessment of the property to determine the most suitable insulation measures. Any potential contributions or costs that the household might need to pay will be clearly communicated after this comprehensive assessment, ensuring transparency throughout the process.
Energy Efficiency and Its Impact
Why Boosting Your Home’s Efficiency Matters More Than Ever
Reduced Energy Bills
An energy-efficient home uses less fuel to stay warm, saving hundreds each year on gas and electric bills — especially in winter.
Lower Carbon Emissions
Efficient homes release fewer greenhouse gases — supporting the UK’s Net Zero 2050 goal and protecting the climate for future generations.
Improved Comfort
Proper insulation and efficient systems keep your home warm in winter and cooler in summer — enhancing everyday comfort year-round.
How Insulation Reduces Energy Bills
Insulating your home, particularly focusing on preventing heat loss from your walls and the loft, stands as one of the most effective strategies to significantly reduce your energy bills. By participating in the Great British Insulation Scheme, consumers can anticipate saving an estimated £300 to £400 annually on their energy bills, directly benefiting from enhanced energy efficiency. The scheme is fundamentally designed to help homes achieve these savings. Applying modern cavity wall insulation can notably add to your home’s energy efficiency, further lowering your bills, while a loft top-up will vastly improve the overall efficiency and comfort of your home by addressing heat loss.
Improving Your Home’s Energy Performance
The Great British Insulation Scheme is precisely designed to assist individuals in insulating their homes, with a core objective of enhancing overall energy efficiency. Beyond just cost savings, installing insulation also plays a vital role in improving indoor air quality through better ventilation, creating a healthier living environment. This significant government initiative aims to help around 300,000 households across the country to improve their home’s energy performance, moving towards more sustainable and comfortable living spaces by reducing heat loss.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Homes
Improving home energy efficiency through schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme offers a multitude of benefits, primarily helping households save money on rising energy bills. Efficient energy use is a critical factor in keeping these heating bills in check. Furthermore, the scheme not only helps households reduce their energy bills but also significantly contributes to lowering carbon emissions, promoting a greener environment. An energy-efficient home provides enhanced comfort, consistent indoor temperatures, and ultimately a more sustainable and cost-effective living situation for the household.
Loft Insulation vs. Cavity Wall Insulation
Which Insulation Type is Right for Your Home?
🧤 Loft Insulation
- Best For: Homes with uninsulated attic or roof space
- Energy Savings: Up to 25% heat retention
- Installation Time: Quick (2–4 hours)
- Cost: Often 100% grant-funded
- Comfort Boost: Warmer upper floors and reduced drafts
🧱 Cavity Wall Insulation
- Best For: Homes built after 1920 with cavity walls
- Energy Savings: Up to 35% less heat loss
- Installation Time: 2–5 hours (external drill method)
- Cost: Usually covered by grants
- Comfort Boost: Even warmth across entire home
Comparing the Two Types of Insulation
The Great British Insulation Scheme specifically targets two primary forms of home insulation: loft insulation and cavity wall insulation. If your household is eligible for the scheme, you will be able to receive one of these types of insulation installed, but not both simultaneously. For cavity wall insulation, the process involves drilling strategic holes into the external brickwork of your home, through which the insulating material is injected. Conversely, loft insulation work is typically confined to the loft space itself, and generally does not require any drilling, though existing boarding may need to be carefully removed and then replaced to facilitate the installation of the new insulation.
Which is More Beneficial for Your Home?
Choosing between loft insulation and cavity wall insulation, or determining which is more beneficial, largely depends on your home’s existing structure and current insulation levels. The installer who conducts your home survey as part of the Great British Insulation Scheme will assess your property to recommend the most effective type of insulation for your specific needs. Both types of insulation are designed to reduce heat loss, contributing significantly to your home’s energy efficiency and ultimately helping to lower your energy bills. The decision on the type of insulation will be guided by what offers the greatest impact on reducing heat loss for your particular household.
Heat Loss Prevention Strategies
Insulating your home is a crucial strategy for preventing heat loss from both your walls and roof, leading to substantial savings on heating bills. It’s widely recognized that a significant portion of heat within a household is lost through uninsulated walls. Therefore, cavity wall insulation can dramatically enhance energy efficiency, contributing to lower heating bills, improved comfort levels, and a reduction in condensation issues. Similarly, topping up existing loft insulation to the industry minimum of 270mm will vastly improve the overall efficiency and comfort of your home, effectively minimizing heat loss and ensuring a warmer, more energy-efficient living environment.
Landlords and Tenants: What You Need to Know
Understanding Your Roles in Energy Efficiency Upgrades
🏠 For Landlords
- Legal Responsibility: Must meet minimum EPC rating of E or above
- Funding Access: Can apply for grants to upgrade rental properties
- Improvements Covered: Insulation, heating, glazing, and controls
- Consent Needed: May need tenant approval for internal work
- Benefit: Increases property value and long-term rentability
🧾 For Tenants
- Eligibility: May qualify for grants if on low income or benefits
- Permission: Must have landlord consent before applying
- Comfort Gains: Improved heating and reduced energy bills
- Safety: All work is carried out by certified engineers
- No Cost: Work is typically funded and free of charge
Responsibilities of Landlords
The Great British Insulation Scheme extends its benefits to privately rented properties, making it an excellent opportunity for landlords to enhance their properties’ energy efficiency. As a landlord, it’s important to note that your properties are increasingly required to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above, making schemes like this highly relevant. If you are a tenant interested in benefiting from this free insulation, you will need to secure explicit permission from your landlord before any insulation measures can be installed in the property, ensuring all parties are aware and agreeable to the home improvements.
Tenant Rights Regarding Insulation
Yes, the Great British Insulation Scheme is designed to directly assist tenants by making their rented homes more energy efficient. The eligibility for the scheme is primarily based on the home itself, meaning that as long as the property meets the specified criteria, it can be insulated, regardless of whether it’s owner-occupied or rented. Tenants are encouraged to approach their landlord to request permission for the insulation work. Landlords should generally be amenable to such requests, as the installation of new loft insulation or cavity wall insulation ultimately benefits them too, by increasing the property’s value and improving its EPC rating.
How Social Housing Fits In
If you reside in a council home, a social home, or a housing association property, the Great British Insulation Scheme may not be the primary avenue for your home insulation needs. In such cases, it is advisable to contact your local authority or landlord directly for comprehensive information on alternative ECO (Energy Company Obligation) schemes and other insulation grants specifically available for social housing. However, it is still beneficial to inform the scheme providers of your interest, as they may be able to collaborate with your property management to offer a tailored solution or guide you towards other relevant energy efficiency measures.
Cost Considerations and Funding Options
Understanding the Financial Aspects
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a significant government initiative aimed at supporting approximately 300,000 households, with the potential to provide free insulation or offer home insulation at greatly reduced costs. The exact financial contribution required, if any, will depend on the specific insulation measures needed and any unique property-related issues identified during the home survey. While the scheme may cover the entire cost of installation for some eligible households, others might need to pay a contribution, potentially around 10% of the total cost. All financial details will be transparently discussed by the installer before any work is agreed upon for your household.
Potential Contributions and Costs
Under the Great British Insulation Scheme, your household might be required to pay a contribution towards the total cost of the insulation, though the precise amount will only be determined following the initial in-home survey. This contribution will depend on which eligibility group you fall into. If you qualify for the general group, you may be asked to contribute a small percentage towards the installation costs of the loft insulation or cavity wall insulation. However, if your household falls into the low-income group, you will be eligible for either significantly lower cost or potentially completely free insulation, ensuring that energy efficiency upgrades are accessible to those most in need.
Long-Term Savings on Energy Bills
Participating in the Great British Insulation Scheme offers a significant opportunity to reduce your energy bills through improved home insulation. By taking advantage of this insulation grant, consumers can realistically anticipate annual savings ranging from an estimated £300 to £400 on their energy bills. Enhancing your home’s energy efficiency through the installation of loft insulation or cavity wall insulation is a direct and effective way to achieve these long-term savings. The scheme’s primary goal is to empower households to reduce their energy consumption and subsequently lower their ongoing heating bills, making homes more affordable to heat.
Final Thoughts on the GBIS
“Eco Green Grant made the entire insulation grant process incredibly easy. From checking eligibility to full loft insulation — everything was handled professionally, and I didn’t pay a penny. Highly recommend to anyone looking to make their home warmer and more efficient!”
— Sarah Thompson, Nottingham
Summary of Key Benefits
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a crucial government-backed scheme designed to help eligible households install essential insulation measures, which can lead to substantial savings on their energy bills. This initiative directly assists homeowners and tenants in reducing both their energy consumption and carbon emissions. Through the scheme, you could receive loft insulation or cavity wall insulation at a significantly reduced price, or even completely free, depending on your eligibility. The ambitious goal of the scheme is to provide this vital support to approximately 300,000 households across the UK, improving energy efficiency for a large segment of the population.
Future of Home Insulation in the UK
The Great British Insulation Scheme represents a significant step towards a more energy-efficient future for homes across the UK. With its focus on widely applicable measures like loft insulation and cavity wall insulation, it sets a precedent for ongoing government initiatives aimed at reducing heat loss and supporting households. The long-term vision is to foster a culture of energy saving, where improving a home’s EPC rating becomes a standard practice, leading to lower energy bills and a greener footprint for every household. This scheme is a clear indicator of the government’s commitment to sustainable home improvements.
How to Stay Updated on Insulation Grants
To stay informed about the Great British Insulation Scheme and other potential insulation grants, it is advisable to regularly check official government websites like GOV.UK, as well as reputable energy saving trust resources. These platforms provide the most current information regarding eligibility criteria, application processes, and any new insulation available schemes. You can also contact energy suppliers directly, as they often have obligations under such government initiatives to help their customers insulate their home. Staying updated ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities to apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme and reduce your energy bills.
FAQs
What is a free insulation scheme?
A free insulation scheme is a government or local initiative that provides financial assistance or free services to homeowners for improving their property’s insulation.
Who is eligible for a free insulation scheme?
Eligibility often depends on factors such as income level, property type, and location. Check with local authorities for specific criteria.
How can I find a free insulation scheme near me?
You can search online using local government websites, community programs, or insulation service providers that offer free schemes.
What types of insulation are covered under these schemes?
Common types include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and external wall insulation. Specifics can vary by scheme.
Is there a cost associated with applying for the scheme?
Most free insulation schemes have no application fees, but there may be assessments or surveys that are conducted at no cost.
How long does the installation process take?
The installation time varies depending on the type of insulation and the size of the property, but it typically ranges from a few hours to a couple of days.
Will I need to provide any documentation?
Yes, applicants usually need to provide proof of income, property ownership, and possibly previous energy bills to verify eligibility.
Can renters apply for free insulation schemes?
In some cases, renters may be eligible if their landlord agrees to the insulation improvements, so it’s important to check the terms of the scheme.
How do I know if the insulation is installed correctly?
After installation, you can check for gaps, drafts, or contact the installer for a follow-up inspection to ensure quality work.
What are the long-term benefits of insulation?
Proper insulation can lead to lower energy bills, improved comfort levels in your home, and a reduced carbon footprint.
