Date Published 28 November 2020
Green Homes Grant Has Been Extended - What
You Need To Know
It was recently announced that the Green Homes Grant has now been extended until 31st March 2022.
The 2 billion pound initiative is designed to offer homeowners in England up to £10,000 in vouchers to spend on installing low-carbon and energy efficient home improvements. This includes draught proofing, loft insulation and a variety of heat pumps.
The scheme was due to end next year, but Boris Johnson has announced the extension due to the amount of complaints that said the turnaround time was just too short and that it was insufficient time to find a suitable labourer to complete the works.
This new extension will now ensure many homeowners can take advantage of the scheme and find the suitable tradespeople to do the work.
Who is eligible for the Green Homes Grant?
In the broadest terms, the green homes grant covers those who own their own home or are a residential landlord, although there are some restrictions, including newly built homes which have not previously been occupied.
To check if you're eligible, head to over to the official UK GOV websit e.
If you're a letting agent in Liverpool, there are a couple of criteria that you need to fit, which can be found over on the official site.
How much can you receive under the Green Homes Grant?
There is a maximum government contribution of £5,000 and the vouchers will cover two-thirds of the costs of eligible improvements.
If there is someone in your household, or yourself, who is receiving certain benefits, you may be eligible for a voucher that will cover the full cost of the improvements (although it's important to note that the maximum value of the voucher is £10,000).
What does the Green Homes Grant cover?
The available measures of home improvement have been split into primary and secondary measures. Under the scheme, the voucher must be used to install at least one primary measure; if done so, the voucher can also be used to cover any of the secondary measures (although the total of this must not exceed the amount under the primary category).
The full list is available over on the GOV UK website, but you will be able to redeem the voucher against cavity wall insulation, under-floor insulation and loft insulation in the primary category, as well as air source and hybrid heat pumps.
Under the secondary category, you could use it for draught proofing, double or secondary glazing and heating controls.
There are more options that are covered under the voucher so please check for clarification.
How do I apply for the Green Homes Grant voucher?
After checking you're eligible for the scheme, the first step in making use of the green homes grant voucher is to seek advice on how to best improve the energy efficiency and heating in your property.
As the voucher covers labour, materials and VAT, you must then find certified tradespeople working in your area who are able to install the measures for you. As with all home improvements, the more quotes the better to ensure you're receiving a fair price although you are only required to obtain one quote from a Green Homes Grant registered installer, to apply for a voucher.
You must then apply for the voucher (one for each element of the work) and once it is issued, work can begin.
What can I do if I'm not eligible for the scheme?
If you've received other associated grants or do not fit the eligibility criteria, there are other ways to help reduce your energy spend and make your home more energy efficient, especially as we move into the winter months.
Simple measures such as draught excluders, bleeding your radiators, turning down your thermostat and updating to a smart energy meter can help you reduce your bills and impact on the environment. Win-win!
