What is the ECO+ Scheme and how can Landlords make the most of it?

Are you a landlord looking to save money and reduce your carbon footprint? That’s probably every landlord in the country. The ECO+ scheme is designed to do exactly that. This government-backed initiative is designed to help landlords improve their properties’ energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and save money on energy bills.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the ECO+ scheme and show you how to make the most of it. We’ll cover everything from the scheme’s objectives and eligibility criteria to the benefits it offers and how to apply. So, let’s get started.

What is the ECO+ Scheme?

The ECO+ scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help landlords improve their properties’ energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and save money on energy bills. The scheme is part of the wider Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme, which aims to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty.

Under the ECO+ scheme, landlords can access funding to install energy-saving measures in their properties. These measures include:

  • Insulation (e.g. loft insulation, cavity wall insulation)
  • Heating (e.g. boilers, heating controls, radiators)
  • Renewables (e.g. solar panels, air source heat pumps)
  • Landlords can apply for the scheme through approved energy suppliers, who will assess their eligibility and recommend suitable measures.

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How can Landlords make the most of the ECO+ Scheme?

If you’re a landlord looking to make the most of the ECO+ scheme, here are some tips to help you get started:

Check your eligibility

Before applying for the ECO+ scheme, you’ll need to check your eligibility.

To qualify, you must:

  • Be a landlord of a privately rented property
  • Have a property that has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below
  • Have a tenant who is in receipt of certain benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, Pension Credit)
  • Identify suitable measures

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to identify suitable measures for your property. You can do this by arranging an energy assessment with an approved energy supplier. They will assess your property and recommend measures based on its age, size and construction.

Apply for funding

After identifying suitable measures, you can apply for funding through your chosen energy supplier. They will guide you through the application process and let you know how much funding you can receive.

Choose a reputable installer

Once you’ve secured funding, it’s important to choose a reputable installer to carry out the work. Look for installers who are registered with a trade association (e.g. Gas Safe, NICEIC) and who have experience in installing energy-saving measures.

Monitor your savings

After the installation is complete, it’s important to monitor your savings. You should see a reduction in your energy bills and an improvement in your property’s EPC rating. Keep track of your energy bills and EPC rating over time to see the full impact of the ECO+ scheme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What benefits does the ECO+ scheme offer landlords?

A: The ECO+ scheme offers landlords funding to install energy-saving measures in their properties, which can help reduce energy bills, improve the property’s EPC rating and reduce carbon emissions.

Q: What energy-saving measures can landlords install under the ECO+ scheme?

A: Landlords can install a range of measures, including insulation (e.g. loft insulation, cavity wall insulation), heating (e.g. boilers, heating controls, radiators) and renewables (e.g. solar panels, air source heat pumps).

Q: How much funding can landlords receive under the ECO+ scheme?

A: The amount of funding landlords can receive under the ECO+ scheme varies depending on their property and the measures they want to install. Your chosen energy supplier will be able to advise you on the funding available to you.

Q: Can landlords apply for the ECO+ scheme if their property has an EPC rating of above D?

A: No, landlords can only apply for the ECO+ scheme if their property has an EPC rating of D or below.

Q: How long does it take to receive funding under the ECO+ scheme?

A: The time it takes to receive funding under the ECO+ scheme can vary, but it typically takes around 8-12 weeks from application to installation.

Q: What happens if the energy-saving measures installed under the ECO+ scheme don’t work?

A: If the measures installed under the ECO+ scheme don’t work, the installer will be responsible for fixing the issue. Make sure to choose a reputable installer who offers a guarantee or warranty on their work.

 

The ECO+ scheme is an excellent opportunity for landlords to improve their properties’ energy efficiency, save money on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. By following the tips outlined in this guide, landlords can make the most of the scheme and ensure a smooth application process.

Remember to check your eligibility, identify suitable measures, apply for funding, choose a reputable installer and monitor your savings. By doing so, you can take advantage of the benefits offered by the ECO+ scheme and contribute to a greener future.

Free Landlord Resources

Free Instant Valuation

See how much your property could get in rent.

Fee Saving Calculator

See how much you could save on property fees.

Yield calculator

Calculate your rental yield with our simple tool

Compliance checklist

Make sure your buy-to-let property remains legal.

Compliance Guide

Download your complete landlord compliance guide 

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