Green Homes Grant opens for applications from landlords
Landlords can now take advantage of the new Green Home Energy Grant scheme to get discounted home improvements. Under Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s scheme, homeowners including landlords can apply for a voucher to help install eco-friendly energy measures and the Government will stump up at least two-thirds of the bill up to £5000
Improvements could include insulating a house to reduce energy use or low-carbon heating to lower the amount of carbon dioxide produced.
The voucher will need to be redeemed and improvements completed by 31st March 2021.
The voucher covers costs for labour, materials and VAT, and work must be completed by a TrustMark-registered installer who is also registered for the scheme.
Once they’ve provided a quote and the work is approved, a voucher is issued.
The Green Homes Grant counts towards the total state aid allowed over a three-year period; landlords will need to check that they don’t exceed the £200,000 threshold.
E or under
Most private rented properties need a minimum Energy Performance Certificate rating of E under the minimum energy efficiency standard; when applying for a voucher for their rented property, landlords will need to either provide proof that they’ve met this standard or proof of an exemption.
Ben Dyer, CEO of mobile-based billing firm Powered Now, says it’s a great boost for small businesses. “According to the Treasury, this scheme is set to support up to 100,000 jobs while helping the nation cut carbon emissions, delivering a win-win for all,” says Dyer.
“At a time like this, tradespeople need as much support as possible and by kickstarting home improvements this is almost certainly set to help.”
