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Energy Efficiency Home Improvements: Where to Start & How to Save on Your Energy Bills

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:39:39 GMT

Enhancing your home's energy efficiency is both an eco-conscious decision and a financially savvy one, especially in the current climate of high energy prices. But embarking on this journey might feel like navigating uncharted territory. This all-inclusive guide serves as your reliable roadmap toward achieving an energy-efficient home. Whether your goal is shrinking your energy bills, reducing your ecological footprint or heightening your living space's overall comfort, we've got you covered.

Insulation: The Foundation of Energy Efficiency

Loft Insulation: Ensuring optimal insulation in your loft is essential for maintaining year-round comfort and reaping substantial energy savings. When it comes to loft insulation, there's a lot more to consider than merely piling on layers. At SFP Contracts, our professional loft insulation services go beyond the basics. We provide a comprehensive solution that begins with a thorough assessment of your loft's current insulation status. After that, we install the recommended minimum of 270mm insulation. Our process ensures that your loft is adequately insulated, meeting or even exceeding the standards. The result? You'll enjoy a cosy, well-insulated home, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer while significantly reducing your energy bills.

Wall Insulation: External Wall Insulation (EWI) offers a two-fold benefit that goes beyond mere insulation. EWI not only significantly reduces heat loss but also rejuvenates your property's exterior, enhancing its curb appeal. Professional installation is the key to successful EWI , and our team of experts handles this seamlessly. We focus not only on improving your property's insulation but also on providing it with a fresh, updated look. The exterior finish can be customised to match your aesthetic preferences. Choose from smooth render, brick effect or a combination of both.

Smart Heating Controls

Smart heating control systems grant homeowners and tenants unprecedented control over their heating and hot water. However, the landscape of smart heating controls can be intricate and sometimes overwhelming. At SFP Contracts, we demystify this world for you. We provide the expertise you need to navigate the diverse range of smart thermostats and heating control systems on the market. Our energy efficiency experts guide you through the process of selecting the right smart heating control system for your specific needs. We take the complexity out of the equation, making the transition to a more energy-efficient home as easy as possible. Our professional installation services ensure that your smart heating controls are optimised for maximum efficiency and convenience.

Energy-Efficient Boilers

Investing in an energy-efficient boiler is not merely a home upgrade; it's a decision with far-reaching implications. New boilers are considerably more efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing energy consumption and emissions. We understand that boiler installation is a technical process that requires expertise. Our experienced team of energy efficiency experts and installers is well-prepared to assist you with these critical upgrades. We provide a hassle-free experience from the moment you select the right boiler for your home to the final installation. Our professionals ensure that your new energy-efficient boiler operates at peak efficiency, guaranteeing that you reap the maximum benefits in terms of cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

DIY Energy Saving Home Improvements

For those who are inclined toward DIY energy-efficiency home improvements, here are several simple energy-saving tips you can do to improve your home's energy efficiency.

Sealing Drafts: An easy and effective way to improve your home's energy efficiency is by sealing drafts around windows and doors. The simple application of weatherstripping or caulk can help prevent warm air from escaping during the winter and keep the heat out during the summer.
Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs: Swap out your traditional incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient alternatives like LED bulbs. These bulbs consume significantly less electricity and last much longer, reducing your energy bills and the frequency of bulb replacements. Doing this can save you up to £60 a year.
Switch off Standby: Remember to turn your appliances off standby mode. This simple action can save you around £55 a year. To make this even more convenient, consider getting a standby saver or smart plug. These devices allow you to turn all your appliances off standby in one go, making it easier to conserve energy.
Lighting: Turn off lights when you're not using them or when you leave a room. This practice can save you around £20 a year.
Fit Radiator Reflector Panels: Consider fitting reflector panels behind your radiators on any uninsulated external walls in your rented property. These panels reflect heat from the radiator back into the room, rather than letting the heat escape through an uninsulated wall. This small adjustment can save you approximately £25 a year on your energy bills.

Government Funding: Making Efficiency Affordable

Many homeowners and tenants are keen to make their homes more energy-efficient, but they may worry about the costs involved. The good news is that various government schemes and grants exist to ease this financial burden and promote the adoption of energy-efficient home improvements.

Free Insulation and Cost Coverage: Household members can often get free or heavily subsidised insulation installation through these government grants. This is a fantastic opportunity to boost your home's energy efficiency without incurring significant expenses.
Help with Applications: Navigating the sometimes complex world of government grants can be daunting. Our expert team is here to help you with the application process. We can guide you through the paperwork, ensuring that you have the best chance of receiving funding.
Professional Installation: Not only do we assist with grant applications, but we will also take care of the installation. We will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly, and all work is completed to the highest standards.

Your journey towards an energy-efficient home is a dual benefit – for your pocket and the planet. You've learned the importance of key upgrades like insulation, smart heating controls and energy-efficient boilers, all of which we, at SFP Contracts, are ready to assist you with.

However, don't overlook the power of small changes. Simple DIY improvements like switching off standby appliances, optimising your lighting and fitting radiator reflector panels can make a significant difference.

By taking these steps, you're not only saving on energy bills but also contributing to a more sustainable future. It's a win-win.

If you're ready to make your home more energy-efficient, contact us at SFP Contracts. We're here to guide you, provide professional installations and offer tailored solutions to create a comfortable and eco-friendly living space.

Maximising Home Comfort: How Does Loft Insulation Work

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 11:48:50 GMT

When it comes to maintaining a warm and comfortable home, loft insulation is a fundamental component that plays a critical role in keeping the cold at bay. But have you ever wondered about the science behind it? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of how loft insulation works to ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient throughout the year.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the intricacies, let's start with the basics. Loft insulation is a material that is installed in the space between your roof and the ceiling of your home. It acts as a thermal barrier, preventing the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of your property. Essentially, it works to keep the warmth generated inside your home from escaping into the cold outdoors.

The Science of Heat Transfer

To appreciate how loft insulation functions, we need to understand the science of heat transfer. There are three primary methods of heat transfer:

a. Conduction : This is the direct transfer of heat through a solid material. In the case of your home, this means heat can escape through your roof tiles and into the cold attic space without insulation.

b. Convection : Convection is the movement of heat through fluids (like air). In an uninsulated loft, warm air rises and escapes through gaps, while cold air enters from outside, creating a continuous cycle of heat loss.

c. Radiation : Radiation involves the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. An uninsulated loft allows radiant heat to escape through the roof.

Loft Insulation's Role in Reducing Heat Transfer

Now that we've covered the principles of heat transfer, let's explore how loft insulation combats each of these methods:

Conduction : Loft insulation materials, typically made of fibreglass, mineral wool or foam boards, are poor conductors of heat. When installed between the ceiling and the roof, they act as a barrier that significantly reduces heat conduction from the warm living space into the cold attic.
Convection : Effective loft insulation also combats heat loss due to convection. By creating a sealed, insulated barrier, it prevents warm air from escaping and cold air from infiltrating the living areas. This reduces the need for your heating system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Radiation : Loft insulation can also reflect and absorb radiant heat, preventing it from being lost through the roof. Some insulation materials are designed with reflective surfaces to enhance this effect.

Energy Efficiency Benefits

Loft insulation not only keeps your home warm but also offers several energy efficiency benefits:

Reduced Energy Bills : With less heat escaping, your heating system doesn't need to work as hard or as often to maintain the desired temperature. This translates to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.
Environmental Impact : Lower energy consumption means reduced greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment.
Enhanced Comfort : A well-insulated home maintains a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature year-round, eliminating cold spots and drafts.

Loft insulation is a smart investment in your home's comfort and energy efficiency. By understanding the science behind it, you can appreciate how loft insulation works to keep your home warm while saving you money and reducing your environmental footprint. If you haven't already, consider consulting with our insulation experts who can help assess your loft insulation needs and ensure your home stays comfortable in every season.

Moreover, government funding is available to help UK homeowners, tenants and landlords cover the costs of loft insulation installation. This financial support is designed to encourage energy-efficient improvements, reduce energy bills and lower carbon emissions. To find out if you're eligible for these incentives and to explore how loft insulation can benefit your specific situation, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team. We're here to provide guidance, answer your questions and assist you in making your home warmer and more energy-efficient.

How to Choose the Right External Render for Your House

craig@jub.org.uk (Jub Systems) — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:36:26 GMT

Selecting the ideal external render for your house is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your property's appearance, durability and energy efficiency. With a wide range of options available, it's essential to make an informed choice that aligns with your aesthetic preferences, budget and long-term maintenance requirements.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the key factors to consider when selecting the right external render for your house, helping you create a stunning and long-lasting facade that enhances the overall value and comfort of your home.

Assessing Your Property's Needs

Before exploring render options, start by evaluating your property's unique requirements. Consider the local climate, weather exposure and the condition of your walls. Properties in regions with frequent rain or extreme temperature fluctuations may need a render with enhanced water resistance and thermal protection.

Identifying areas that need extra protection or insulation will help you choose a render that offers optimal performance and longevity.

Evaluating Longevity and Durability

Investing in a durable render ensures that your property remains protected and visually appealing for years to come. Research the expected lifespan of different render types and consider factors such as resistance to weather conditions, cracking, fading and maintenance requirements.

While some renders may require periodic repainting or touch-ups, others offer longer-lasting protection and reduced maintenance needs.

Budget and Cost Considerations

While modern external renders offer numerous benefits, it's essential to align your choice with your budget. Balance your desired finish with the long-term maintenance costs and benefits to find the most suitable option for your home. Remember that investing in higher-quality, durable renders may result in cost savings over time due to reduced maintenance needs.

Architectural Style and Design

Choosing an external render that complements your property's architectural style is key to achieving a cohesive and visually pleasing exterior. Consider the colour, texture and finish of the render and how they harmonise with existing design elements or surrounding properties.

For instance, traditional renders with textured finishes may suit older properties, while sleek and smooth renders could enhance modern homes.

Different Types of External Render

Acrylic Renders

Pros:

Versatile and flexible, accommodating various architectural styles.
Excellent crack resistance, providing long-lasting durability.
Available in a wide range of colours and textures, allowing for customisation.

Cons:

May not be as breathable as other render types.

Monocouche Renders

Pros:

Single-layered and through-coloured, eliminating the need for painting.
Low-maintenance and resistant to fading.

Cons:

Limited colour choices compared to acrylic renders.

Silicone Renders

Pros:

Eco-friendly and breathable, allowing moisture to escape from walls.
Excellent water repellency and self-cleaning properties, keeping the exterior fresh.
Provides a sleek, modern appearance with excellent weather resistance.
Resistant to algae and fungal growth.

Cons:

Slightly more expensive than other render types.

Mineral Renders

Pros:

Made from natural minerals, creating a unique and organic texture.
Durable and environmentally friendly.
Resistant to UV rays and harsh weather conditions.

Cons:

May require more maintenance compared to other external renders.

Nanotech Renders

Pros:

Cutting-edge technology resists dirt, algae and pollution.
Low-maintenance and long-lasting, providing a sleek appearance for years.
Highly water-repellent and weather-resistant.

Cons:

Higher upfront cost due to advanced technology.

Professional Application and Warranty

The successful application of external render requires expertise and precision. Ensure that you hire a qualified and experienced rendering professional to achieve the best results. Additionally, inquire about warranties provided by the manufacturer or installer to safeguard your investment.

If you have any questions or need expert advice, feel free to reach out to our team at contact@sfp-contracts.co.uk.

Local Building Regulations

Before finalising your render choice, familiarise yourself with local building regulations and planning permissions. Some areas may have specific restrictions on external finishes and compliance is crucial to avoid any issues in the future.

We have a separate guide that goes into detail about building regulations and planning permission. Give it a read here .

Choosing the right external render for your house involves a comprehensive approach, considering factors like climate, render types, longevity, architectural style, eco-friendliness, budget and professional advice. By making an informed decision, you'll not only enhance your property's kerb appeal but also ensure its protection and energy efficiency for years to come.

With a wide range of modern external render options available, you can transform your house's exterior into a stunning and durable masterpiece that reflects your unique style and values.

If you're seeking expert rendering advice or considering our professional rendering service, don't hesitate to get in touch with us . Our team of qualified renderers is ready to assist you in choosing the perfect render for your home and ensuring a flawless application for outstanding results.

The Ultimate Guide to the Great British Insulation Scheme: Measures, Eligibility and How to Apply

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 08:40:17 GMT

Introducing the Great British Insulation Scheme, previously known as ECO+, a government initiative aimed at helping households insulate their homes, improve energy efficiency and reduce energy bills. With the scheme already launched and set to run until March 2026, it's time to discover how this £1 billion programme can benefit households across the UK.

In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the scheme, its eligibility criteria and the range of energy-saving measures available.

Benefits of the Great British Insulation Scheme

The Great British Insulation Scheme aims to support approximately 300,000 households by providing financial assistance for home insulation. By participating in the scheme, households can save an estimated £300 to £400 per year on their energy bills.

The focus is on helping those with the lowest incomes, while also extending support to households living in energy-inefficient homes with Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of D or below, as well as those in lower Council Tax bands (A-D in England, A-E in Scotland and Wales). This inclusive approach ensures that more people, especially those struggling with high energy costs, can benefit from making their homes more energy efficient.

The Aim of the Great British Insulation Scheme

The Great British Insulation Scheme has a clear goal: to deliver single insulation measures to two main groups of customers. The first group consists of low-income individuals who do not meet the minimum requirements for ECO4 assistance. The scheme aims to provide them with valuable insulation measures to improve their living conditions. The second group includes households based on council tax band and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, targeting a wider range of individuals who can benefit from energy-saving upgrades.

Eligibility Criteria

To take advantage of the Great British Insulation Scheme, households will need to fall under one of the following groups:

The Low-Income Group

Occupants are on one of the benefits below and have an EPC rating of G-D
Child Benefit
Pension Guarantee Credit
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Child Tax Credits
Working Tax Credits
Universal Credit (UC)
Pension Credit Savings Credit
Housing Benefit

N.B. Properties in E, F & G will need to demonstrate that the ECO4 minimum requirements can’t be met before they can receive a single measure under the Great British Insulation Scheme

If the household is owner-occupied, the customer can have Heating Controls (Room Stat, Programmer, TRVS only) as a secondary measure alongside a primary insulation measure
Private rented sector households can receive any insulation measure

The General Group

Council tax bands A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales & starting EPC rating of G-D
If private-rented, can only receive a higher cost insulation measure (e.g. not Loft Insulation or Cavity Wall Insulation)

Eligible Measures Under the Great British Insulation Scheme

The Great British Insulation Scheme offers an extensive selection of eligible measures to address various insulation needs. These measures include:

Cavity Wall Insulation
Internal Wall Insulation
External Wall Insulation
Loft Insulation
Underfloor Insulation
Pitched and Flat Roof Insulation
Room-in-Roof Insulation
Park Home Insulation
Solid Floor Insulation

Application Process

Applying for the scheme is a straightforward process:

Get in touch with our team to express your interest in the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Our experts will then carry out an eligibility assessment and evaluate your eligibility based on the scheme's criteria, considering your property's EPC rating and Council Tax band.
You will also receive personalised guidance and recommendations on the energy-saving measures suitable for your home.
Our team will then assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and submitting the application.
If approved, the chosen energy efficiency measures, such as loft and cavity wall insulation, will be installed in your home.

The Great British Insulation Scheme presents an exciting opportunity for households to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, make them more sustainable and save money on their energy bills.

With a strong emphasis on supporting low-income households and those residing in energy-inefficient homes, this government initiative strives to make energy-saving measures easily accessible to a broader range of individuals.

If you'd like to learn more about the government scheme or have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team .

ECO Flex: Providing Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades for Non-Benefit Eligible Households in the UK

Wed, 17 May 2023 08:57:17 GMT

The ECO4 scheme has been helping eligible households in the UK to access free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades to reduce energy costs and support sustainable living. However, not all households that need support with improving their homes are receiving income-related benefits. That's why the UK government introduced the ECO Flex scheme.

Under ECO Flex, local authorities are provided with more funding to identify residents who would benefit from home upgrades, even if they don't meet the standard eligibility criteria for ECO4. With ECO Flex, households don't have to be on benefits to qualify for funding.

ECO Flex Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for ECO Flex is quite comprehensive. To qualify, your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating must be between E-G if you rent or D-G if you own your home. If your property is not currently on the EPC register, we can help assess it for you.

You must also have a combined household income of less than £31,000.

Alternatively, if you meet the EPC criteria, you can qualify for ECO Flex if you meet the following:

Your home is within a specific postcode identified by your local council.
You receive a council tax rebate (single-person occupancy excluded).
You are identified as vulnerable to living in a cold home: someone in the home is pregnant, disabled or elderly, you have children under 5, or someone in the home has a medical condition.
Your child receives free school meals.
Your home is identified as being in debt to your energy provider.

Another way to qualify is if you are identified by your GP as vulnerable to the cold and on a low income.

If you're not sure whether you qualify for ECO Flex or simply want to learn more about the scheme, we're here to help. Our team can take you through the whole process, simply get in touch .

What home improvement measures fall under ECO Flex?

If you qualify for the ECO Flex scheme, you can receive a range of energy efficiency upgrades, such as:

First-time central heating
Cavity wall insulation
Loft insulation/ room in roof insulation
External wall insulation
Internal wall insulation
Solar panels
Underfloor insulation
Air source heat pumps
Electric storage heater upgrades

At SFP Contracts, we're committed to providing our customers with a complete service that takes care of everything from start to finish. If you're interested in finding out more about ECO Flex and how it could benefit you, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

We are more than happy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to improve your home's energy efficiency and reduce your energy bills.

ECO4 Government Scheme: Free Insulation and Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Eligible UK Households

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:27:50 GMT

In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and increase properties’ EPC rating, the UK government has launched the ECO4 scheme, which aims to provide eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades.

Benefits of ECO4

The scheme is targeted at low-income households and those living in fuel poverty and is designed to help:

Reduce Energy Bills: By providing eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades, the scheme helps to reduce energy bills, making it easier for households to stay warm during the winter months.
Improve Living Conditions: By installing insulation and energy efficiency measures, the scheme helps to make homes more comfortable, reduce noise levels and improve indoor air quality.
Reduce Carbon Emissions: The scheme helps to reduce carbon emissions by promoting sustainable living and reducing energy consumption. This is an important step in creating a more sustainable future.
Support Low-Income Households: The ECO4 scheme is designed to reduce the financial burden of heating and cooling a home and can improve the quality of life for those living in fuel poverty.

Measures Available under ECO4

There is a big variety of measures that can be installed via the ECO4 scheme, some of the key ones include:

Loft Insulation : By insulating your loft, you can reduce heat loss and save up to £215 a year on your energy bills.
Cavity Wall Insulation: Cavity wall insulation involves filling the gap between the internal and external walls of your property, which can save you up to £145 a year on your energy bills.
Solid Wall Insulation : Solid wall insulation involves fitting insulation to the external or internal walls of your property, saving you up to £255 a year on your energy bills.
Draught Proofing: Draught-proofing measures include sealing gaps and cracks around doors and windows.
Double-Glazing: By installing double-glazed windows, you can save up to £115 a year on your energy bills.
Energy-Efficient Boilers and Heating Systems : Upgrading your boiler and/or heating system to a more energy-efficient model can help you save up to £315 a year on your energy bills.

Other measures that can be installed under the ECO4 scheme include flat & pitched roof insulation, room-in-roof insulation, floor insulation, solar PV, park home insulation and more.

Eligibility Criteria

ECO4 is available for properties with an EPC rating of E, F, or G, and the occupants are on one of the following benefits:

Child Benefit
Pension Guarantee Credit
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Child Tax Credits
Working Tax Credits
Universal Credit (UC)
Pension Credit Savings Credit
Housing Benefit

Application Process

To apply for the ECO4 scheme, it’s best for eligible households to get in touch with an accredited installer who will take care of the entire process. This ensures that the process runs smoothly and that all the necessary measures are installed correctly.

The installer will carry out an assessment of the property to determine which energy efficiency measures are needed. They will then provide advice on the most appropriate measures and arrange for the installation of the chosen measures.

In conclusion, the UK government's ECO4 scheme is an important initiative that provides a range of benefits for eligible households. By reducing energy bills, improving living conditions, and promoting sustainable living, this scheme helps to support low-income households while also contributing to the fight against rising carbon emissions.

If you are an eligible household, we encourage you to take advantage of this scheme and explore the free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades that are available to you. To get started, we recommend getting in touch with an accredited installer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your upgrades are installed safely and efficiently.

At SFP Contracts, we are committed to supporting households throughout the UK to access the benefits of the ECO4 scheme. If you have any questions about the scheme or how to apply, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team. We are here to help and support you in any way we can.

External Wall Insulation: How it Can Reduce Your Energy Bills

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:40:56 GMT

By having external wall insulation installed to your property, it can significantly reduce your energy bills, enhance its kerb appeal, and minimise heat loss.

Installing solid wall insulation offers three primary advantages:

It shields your home from heat loss, keeping it warm and comfortable.
It reduces your heating expenses, saving you money on energy bills.
It decreases your carbon footprint by lowering the amount of energy required to heat your home.

Working out if you need solid wall insulation or cavity wall insulation

Solid walls have no gap in between the bricks, which makes them suitable only for solid wall insulation. Cavity walls comprise of two layers, which have a cavity between them, hence the name.

To work out, what type of walls you have, you can check the brickwork of your home and refer to the images below.

Cavity Wall:

Solid Wall:

As you can see in the images, the bricks in a solid wall will have an alternating pattern, with some bricks laid across the wall so you can see the smaller ends from the outside. As for the cavity wall, all the bricks are laid lengthways in an even pattern.

If the brickwork is no longer visible and you can’t tell the type of wall, you can seek advice from an expert installer . Get in touch with our team of installers at contact@sfp-contracts.co.uk.

In addition, some houses will have non-traditional construction, for example, concrete, steel – or timber-framed. To have external wall insulation installed, you will need to speak to an expert. The SFP Contracts team have the needed experience and skillset to advise you on your options.

What is External Wall Insulation?

An EWI system is the process of fixing a layer of insulation material (insulation boards) to the façade of the building, which is then covered by a layer of external render.

The render can achieve different textures and appearances depending on your preference. By implementing a fabric-first approach the render can be brick slipped, brick rendered, dash rendered or most commonly Silicone Finish.

Why choose solid wall insulation for your home:

It will achieve a revamped appearance of the exterior of your home
It will offer a longer lifespan for the walls
It will reduce condensation, which will reduce the risk of damp
It will improve the weatherproofing and sound resistance of the walls
Reduce heat loss and CO2 emissions

The savings solid wall insulation can achieve and the financial support you can seek

This is the amount you can save on your energy bills per year if you have external wall insulation installed:

Source: Energy Saving Trust

These are estimates based on insulating a gas-heated home. Costs may vary significantly depending on the level of work required. The above estimates are based on a typical install, ranging from a small flat to a large detached home. Prices are based on fuel prices as of March 2023.

If you’re seeking financial support to carry out the needed insulation, there are several ongoing energy-efficiency government schemes that SFP Contracts services can be utilised for and implement our fabric-first approach.

These include:

LADS (Local Authority Delivery Scheme)
HUG (Home Upgrade Grant)
ECO4 Scheme
ECO+ Scheme
ECO Flex Scheme
SHDF (Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund)
BUS (Boiler Upgrade Scheme)

We're happy to take you through the eligibility criteria of each grant, check if you qualify for free insulation and carry out the energy-efficiency project from start to finish. Learn more about the schemes by clicking here .

Do I Need Planning Permission to Renovate the Exterior of My House?

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 14:39:54 GMT

Three factors will determine if you would need planning permission to render your house or to have external wall insulation installed. These are the area your house is based in, the origin of the building and additional changes you might want to make, for example, changing the materials used in the construction of the house.

Do you need planning permission for External Wall Insulation ?

The process of having your house externally insulated can already be a long process. Having to make the decision of which installers to choose, come up with a budget and decide on the overall appearance.

An additional step to all this in some cases can be applying for planning permission, which can only make the process even longer. Since External Wall Insulation doesn’t fall in the category of extensions/enlargement, you would only need planning permission if your home is located in a conservation area or is a listed building.

In the cases that your house is a listed building or in a conservation area, if you decide to undertake a solid wall insulation project, it is considered a criminal offence.

We highly recommend if you’re not 100% sure if your house falls in these two categories, you contact your local council to confirm. There is a very small percentage of people that would need planning permission but again it’s best to consult with your installers or local council if unsure.

In addition, you would also be required planning permission if you plan to use materials that don’t match the construction of your home or if you’ve previously had your permitted development rights revoked.

Rendering

Rendering the exterior of houses is becoming more and more popular as it can significantly improve the appearance and maintenance of a home.

Similar to external wall insulation, in most cases rendering your house wouldn’t require planning permission. It will once again be applicable for houses that are listed or in conservation areas.

Maintaining and replacing render is considered permitted development. This means that as long as you stick to choosing a render that is similar to the existing or originally used one, you don’t need planning permission.

However, there are several rendering projects that can fall in a grey area, where for complete peace of mind you should seek advice from your council.

These can include:

Applying render on top of existing render, which is a different colour
Installing render over pebbledash
Or removing pebbledash to then apply render
Applying render over brickwork, which wasn’t rendered, to begin with

Whether or not, you need planning permission, you would need reputable and highly-experienced installers. SFP Contracts can not only provide you with the best results but also advise you on any worries you might have.

Our team and expert installers are here to help you. Contact us via email at contact@sfp-contracts.co.uk or call 0345 303 6772.

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Government Scheme: What Is It & Do You Qualify for Free Insulation?

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 13:16:39 GMT

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government scheme that offers grant funding to support energy-inefficient homes, which in turn aims to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions.

In this blog article, we’ll take you through all the details you need to know about the ECO funding scheme, what are the differences between ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex and do you qualify for free insulation grants.

ECO: A Brief Overview

ECO was developed for energy suppliers to financially support households across the UK with the aim of boosting the property’s energy efficiency and EPC rating. There are three sets of insulation grants available under the Energy Company Obligation: ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex. Each grant has its specific eligibility criteria but all of them offer the main types of energy-efficiency measures. These include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation and boiler replacement or repair.

Can I Get Free Insulation?

To qualify for the ECO insulation grants, you need to be the homeowner or have a signed document from your landlord granting you permission to apply. Eligibility criteria for each of the three grants vary and will depend on several factors.

Here are some of the factors that if you meet, you will most likely be eligible for the grant to insulate your home:

If you receive the Warm Home Discount in the 'core' group, get eligible benefits and fit the income requirements
Live in social housing that has an EPC rating of E or lower (check your energy performance certificate, ask your landlord or social housing association or get in touch with an approved installer to find out )
You meet the criteria set by your Local Authority

These are only guidelines for the eligibility criteria, continue reading to find out about the specific criteria for each ECO government grant.

What is the difference between ECO4, ECO+ and ECO Flex?

All three government insulation grants have the same goal to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty, focusing the entire scheme to support low-income, vulnerable and fuel-poor households.

The differences between them come down to the application process, the measures offered under each government scheme and their individual eligibility criteria. Let’s start with the eligibility criteria for ECO4.

Are you eligible for ECO4?

ECO4 is available for properties with an EPC rating of E, F, or G and the occupants are on one of these benefits:

Child Benefit*
Pension Guarantee Credit
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Child Tax Credits
Working Tax Credits
Universal Credit (UC)
Pension Credit Savings Credit
Housing Benefit

Are you eligible for ECO+?

The Low-Income Group:

Same benefits list as ECO4
EPC bands G-D. Properties in bands E, F or G will need to demonstrate that the ECO4 minimum requirements cannot be met before they can receive a single measure under ECO+
If the household is owner-occupied, the customer can have Heating Controls (Room stat, programmer, TRVS only) as a secondary measure alongside a primary insulation measure
Private rented sector households can receive any insulation measure

The General group

Council tax bands A-D (in England, different for Wales & Scotland) + starting EPC bands G-D
If private rented, can only receive a higher cost insulation measure (i.e. not Loft Insulation or Cavity Wall Insulation)

Are you eligible for ECO4 Flex?

If you live in a private home (rented or owned) with an EPC rating of D or below and have a combined household income of £31,000 or less, then you are likely to be eligible for this scheme.

If you don’t meet these eligibility criteria, you can still access the government funding if you are living in a private home with a low energy efficiency rating and:

you or a member of your household has a medical condition that makes you more vulnerable to cold
you are over 65 or a member of your family is under the age of 5 or over 65
a member of your household is in receipt of Council Tax Support
a member of your household is in receipt of free school meals, due to low income
you have been referred to the scheme by the council or by Citizen's Advice after being identified as struggling to pay your utility bills

What measures are included in ECO4, ECO+ and ECO Flex?

Currently, the energy-efficiency measures included under ECO4 and ECO4 Flex are the same and they include:

The measures offered under the ECO+ scheme are the following:

Applying for ECO funding

The process of applying for ECO funding incorporates multiple steps that can involve your energy company, your local council and an accredited installer. To make the application process quicker and more efficient, we highly recommend contacting an approved installer directly to check if they can carry out the work required and apply for the specific government funding scheme on your behalf.

You can also get in touch with our team at contact@sfp-contracts.co.uk with any enquiries you may have and we will do our best to guide you through the ECO funding scheme.