The Green Homes Grants Scheme was launched on 30 September and is available until the 31 March 2021. These grants are available to homeowners, including landlords. This scheme is only available in England at present.

The residential sector accounts for a fifth of carbon emissions. As part of their strategy to reduce this, the Government consulted last year on how best to raise the minimum energy efficiency standards in homes to an EPC ‘B’ or ‘C’ rating by 2030.

Landlords can apply for a voucher towards the cost of installing energy efficient and low-carbon heating improvements in their homes to cover: up to two thirds of the cost of qualifying improvements up to a maximum of £5,000.

Two types of vouchers are available :

primary measures of energy efficiency improvement;and

secondary measures.

You have to qualify for primary measures before you can apply for secondary measures.

The installer will request and receive payment from the government for the costs covered by the voucher. This has to be done by March 31 2021.

Steps to take to apply

Step 1: Check your eligibility and what work is covered

First, check your eligibility for the grant at https://www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk/green-homes-grant/questionnaire.

Step 2: Find a Trader

The work has to be delivered via companies that are registered through Trustmark and also registered for the scheme.

For Energy Efficiency and Insulation works and  Clean Heat works you can find a certified installer here https://www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk/installer-search and You must obtain a quote for the next step.

Step 3: Make your application

online at https://www.gov.uk/apply-green-homes-grant

To do this you will write down the name and date of birth of the property owner/owners, a quote for the work and the TrustMarlicence number of your chosen tradesperson. You can apply for vouchers for multiple measures at the same time for one property, using different TrustMark installers. Each voucher is only valid for the measure and property applied for.

Step 4: Complete the works and redeem the voucher

Begin the works once the application has been made, and pay your share of the costs before redeeming the voucher.

Vouchers are valid for three months from date of issue or 31 March 2021 – whichever is earlier. Work must be completed and vouchers redeemed by this deadline.

When redeeming the voucher, landlords must confirm:

• the works have been completed;
• they have paid their share of the costs;
• they have received the necessary documents from the installer; and
• that the landlord meets the eligibility requirements.

You will need to attach the dated invoice from the installer. The payment will be made directly to the installer.

Costs that are covered by the voucher include labour, materials and VAT. Additional works necessary for installation may also be covered but you should check the Government guidance to see whether it qualifies.