The GREAT BRITISH INSULATION SCHEME (GBIS)

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a new plan from the government to help people make their homes warmer and save energy. It started in April 2023 and will continue until April 2026. Ofgem, a government regulator, is in charge of running it. It’s a big step towards tackling energy problems and helping the environment.

GBIS works alongside another plan called ECO4. But GBIS mainly focuses on doing one thing well: adding insulation. This means more homes can get help faster.

Why Do We Need Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)?

• Help people lower their energy bills by improving home insulation.

• Support families who struggle to afford heating costs.

• Reduce carbon emissions, helping the UK reach its environmental goals.

• Make homes more energy-efficient.

The government is giving money to big energy companies, and they’ll use it to help people make their homes warmer and use less energy. In total, £1 billion will be spent over three years to upgrade over 300,000 homes. This will really help the UK save energy and protect the environment.

GBIS vs. ECO4

GBIS works alongside the existing ECO4 scheme, but with a primary focus on insulation measures. This streamlined approach allows for faster assistance to a greater number of homes.

Who Can Apply for GBIS?

The Great British Insulation Scheme is designed to help many different households, especially those who need help with energy efficiency. You might be able to apply if:

• Your Home’s Energy Rating (EPC): If your home has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G, it means it’s not very energy efficient. GBIS is particularly interested in helping these homes. Not sure what your EPC rating is? You can check online or ask your landlord.

• Your Council Tax Band: The amount of Council Tax you pay can also affect whether you can get help.

  • In England, homes in Council Tax bands A, B, C, or D are eligible.

  • In Scotland and Wales, homes in Council Tax bands A, B, C, D, or E are eligible.

• Your Income:

  • Low-income households: GBIS prioritises helping families who don’t make a lot of money. There isn’t one specific income limit for the whole scheme, but if you’re on a low income, it’s worth checking if you qualify.

  • Some areas have specific income limits: Check if any local authority schemes have an income upper limit – often, but not always, around £31,000 per year.

• Benefits You Receive: If you receive certain government benefits, you’re more likely to qualify for GBIS. These benefits can include:

  • Universal Credit

  • Pension Credit

  • Child Tax Credit

  • Working Tax Credit

  • Income Support

  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Housing Benefit

  • Receiving one of these benefits often makes you automatically eligible, but it’s always best to check.

• If You Rent from the Council or a Housing Association (Social Housing): If you rent your home from the council or a housing association, you might be eligible if your home is in the right Council Tax band (see above).

Important Things to Remember:

• It’s not just one thing: Eligibility isn’t based on just one of these things. It’s often a combination.

• Check even if you’re not sure: Even if you think you might not qualify, it’s worth checking. You might be surprised!

• A home assessment might be needed: Even if you meet the initial requirements, someone from the GBIS scheme might need to visit your home to make sure insulation is right for your situation.

The main goal of GBIS is to help people who need it most – those in older, less energy-efficient homes, and those who are struggling with their energy bills. If that sounds like you, definitely check if you can apply!

How to Check If You Can Get GBIS?

1. Apply Online with Our Application Form:

• Start Here: Please enter your details below to receive a no-obligation survey from an approved local installer. Just fill out the application form online. This is the quickest way to get the ball rolling. We’ll need some basic information about you and your home.

2. We’ll Arrange a Free Home Survey:

• Connecting You to a Local Installer: Once you submit your application, We will allocate your application to an approved Installer/Surveyor who has access to the grant funding.

• Free, No-Obligation Survey: They will need to carry out a free, no-obligation survey of your property before any measures are installed. This survey is essential to confirm your eligibility and assess what kind of insulation is right for your home.

3. Assessment and Confirmation

• The surveyor will determine if GBIS is right for you, and the types of insulation that are eligible for grant funding

• Following your survey the surveyor will contact you with next steps

4. Know Your Costs Upfront

• After the survey, They will inform you if there is a contribution to pay towards the cost of the installation before you go ahead. In some cases it will be a 100% free grant; in others, heavily discounted. You’ll always know the cost before you commit to anything.

Types of Insulation Covered by the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) provides funding for various insulation measures to improve the energy efficiency of homes. The type of insulation suitable for your home will depend on its construction. A qualified surveyor will assess your property to determine the best options. All installations must meet GBIS standards to qualify for funding.

• Cavity Wall Insulation: Fills the gap between external walls to reduce heat loss. Ideal for properties built after 1920 with unfilled cavity walls.

• Solid Wall Insulation (Internal & External): Insulates walls without a cavity. Internal insulation involves fitting rigid insulation boards or a stud wall. External insulation adds a layer to the outside, finished with render or cladding. Suitable for older homes with solid brick or stone walls.

• Loft Insulation: Adds or tops up insulation in the loft space to prevent heat escaping through the roof. Recommended for almost all homes with a loft.

• Flat or Pitched Roof Insulation: Tailored solutions for different roof types to minimise heat loss.

• Underfloor Insulation: Insulates the ground floor, especially for homes with suspended wooden floors.

• Room-in-Roof Insulation: Designed for converted loft spaces or attics to improve temperature control.

• Park Home Insulation: Specialised insulation for mobile homes to improve energy efficiency.

GBIS for Landlords

If you’re a landlord, GBIS offers a fantastic opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your rental properties, which can benefit both you and your tenants.

• Benefits for Landlords:

  • Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and renters, potentially increasing your property’s market value.

  • Attract and Retain Tenants: Tenants are increasingly seeking energy-efficient properties to save money on their energy bills.

  • Meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards: UK regulations require rental properties to meet a minimum EPC rating. GBIS can help you comply with these regulations.

  • Reduced Maintenance Costs: Improved insulation can help prevent damp and condensation, potentially reducing maintenance costs.

• Important Considerations for Landlords:

  • Tenant Consultation: It’s essential to consult with your tenants before undertaking any insulation work. Discuss the benefits and potential disruptions with them.

  • Eligibility: Check if your property meets the GBIS eligibility criteria (EPC rating, Council Tax band).

  • Responsibilities: As a landlord, you’re responsible for ensuring that any insulation work is carried out safely and to a high standard.

• Benefits for Tenants:

  • Reduce their energy consumption

  • Reduce their carbon footprint