The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a government plan for domestic insulation and energy efficiency. As it goes across the UK; the type of property, energy efficiency, and household income determine eligibility. This blog explains these criteria in detail, including council tax band requirements and energy performance standards.

What is the GBIS?

The Great British Insulation Scheme aims to help households save energy bills by giving insulation improvements free or at reduced rates. It specifically focuses on two categories:

1. General Group: Middle-income households seeking better insulation.
2. Low-Income Group: Households that receive benefits from the government or face high energy bills.

This includes different kinds of improvement: loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and floor insulation, which provide a major boost in energy efficiency and comfort.

Does Your Region Affect Eligibility?

This scheme has been made available in different parts of the UK: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, local councils and energy suppliers manage applications which vary by region.

Certain areas, such as rural or colder regions, may receive priority due to higher energy demands. To confirm regional specifics, check with your local council or energy supplier.

Do You Need a Specific Property Type?

The type of property you live in can influence your eligibility for GBIS. Here’s how:

• Older Properties: Homes built before 1990 are often prioritized due to insufficient insulation.
• Detached and Semi-Detached Homes: These homes typically lose more heat and are therefore more likely to qualify.
• Terraced Homes: Eligibility applies, though heat loss is generally lower than in detached properties.
• Flats: Flats may qualify for loft or cavity wall insulation depending on their design.
• Social Housing: Tenants in social housing can qualify if the property’s energy performance is low.

Council Tax Band Requirements for the General Group

For middle-income households under the General Group, property eligibility is often linked to council tax bands. Homes within lower to mid-range tax bands are typically eligible, while higher-band properties are excluded.

• England and Wales: Properties in council tax bands A to D may qualify.
• Scotland: Properties in bands A to E are considered eligible.

If your home falls outside these bands, you may need to explore alternative schemes or funding options.

SAP Requirement for the Low-Income Group

Such low-income households shall meet certain energy efficiency standards according to the SAP rating. These requirements ensure that assistance is provided to the most energy-inefficient homes.

• Eligible SAP Ratings: Homes with EPC ratings of D, E, F, or G are prioritized.
• Focus on Improvement: The lower the EPC rating, the greater the chance of qualifying a property for a substantial upgrade.

SAP rates how energy-efficient a house is with respect to factors such as insulation, heating systems, and energy consumption.

Homeowner and Tenant Considerations

Whether you own or rent your home, you can apply for GBIS, but there are some differences:

• Homeowners: Can directly apply and authorize the upgrades.
• Tenants: Must secure permission from landlords to proceed with insulation improvements.

Landlords may also apply on behalf of tenants, especially in cases of social or private rented housing.

Benefits of GBIS

The GBIS program offers numerous advantages to improve your home and finances:

• Lower Energy Bills: Proper insulation reduces heat loss, cutting heating costs significantly.
• Improved Comfort: Homes with better insulation maintain a stable temperature year-round.
• Environmental Impact: Energy-efficient homes produce fewer carbon emissions, supporting climate goals.
• Property Value: Upgraded insulation increases a home’s market value and appeal.

How to Check Your Eligibility

To determine if you qualify for GBIS, follow these steps:

1. Energy Performance Check: Assess your home’s EPC or SAP rating.
2. Council Tax Band: Confirm your property’s council tax band.
3. Speak to Local Authorities: Your local council or energy supplier can guide you on regional criteria.
4. Contact Installers: Approved installers can verify eligibility and arrange energy assessments.

Conclusion

While GBIS is available nationwide, your eligibility depends on specific factors such as property type, council tax band, and energy efficiency. Key priority areas are low-income households and old houses with little insulation. 

Knowing these criteria helps you to think about whether or not GBIS is the best choice for you, and to do what’s necessary to apply. Take action now to make your home warmer, more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly.