Green Homes Grant
The Green Home Grant scheme was announced as part of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Summer Statement on 8th July 2020.
Under this scheme homeowners and landlords will be able to apply for a voucher to fund up to two-thirds of the cost of hiring tradespeople to upgrade the energy performance of their home (up to a maximum contribution of around £5000). Low-income households will be eligible for up to 100% government funding, up to approximately £10,000.
The government has ensured that the tradespeople involved in the scheme are of a high standard, giving households confidence that improvements to their homes will be of the highest quality. When the voucher scheme opens, you will be able to choose a from a list of quality-assured contractors to do the work.
You can apply for a voucher from the end of September. Until then visit the Green Homes Grant Scheme to see if you are eligible and what improvements you can make to your home. You can also get advice and information on the scheme from the Simple Energy website.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards
Minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) were introduced by the government in 2011. Related to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), the legislation prevents landlords from renting out F and G rated properties.
From April 2019 landlords have been required to demonstrate it would cost more than £3,500 to improve their property to a minimum ‘E’ rating before letting to a new tenant. From April 2020 this will apply to all existing tenancies.
The regulations were introduced to improve the quality of private rented buildings in England and Wales and to increase the energy efficiency of the worst performing houses and buildings. In addition, these regulations aim to improve the comfort and conditions in private rented homes and reduce fuel poverty.
