If you’re renting a home in the UK and want to make it warmer, more energy-efficient, and reduce your energy bills, the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) might help—even if you don’t own the property.
Can Private Renters Apply for the Great British Insulation Scheme?
Yes, private renters can benefit from GBIS, but there are conditions:
- Your landlord’s consent is required: You can’t make changes to insulation or install measures without their permission.
- The property must meet eligibility criteria, particularly regarding Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings and council tax bands.
Your income and circumstances may also influence eligibility, especially if you fall into the “low-income eligibility group.
Eligibility Criteria for Private Renters
To qualify as a private renter, the following generally applies:
- The home must be in EPC Band D to G.
- You can check your property’s EPC on the government website: EPC Register
- You can check your property’s EPC on the government website: EPC Register
- Your property should fall under Council Tax bands A-D in England or A-E in Scotland/Wales.
- You may qualify if:
- You or someone in your household receives certain benefits (like Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, etc.).
- You have a gross household income below £31,000.
- Your home has poor insulation or no cavity wall/loft insulation.
- You or someone in your household receives certain benefits (like Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, etc.).
What Insulation Measures Can You Get?
Under GBIS, you may receive one major insulation measure, such as:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
- Flat roof insulation
- Underfloor insulation
- Room-in-roof insulation
These improvements are designed to help cut energy costs and make your home more comfortable.
Steps to Apply as a Private Renter
- Check your eligibility: Use the official GBIS checker.
- Talk to your landlord:
- Get written consent before installation.
- They might be supportive since it improves their property and doesn’t cost them much.
- Get written consent before installation.
- Contact an approved installer or energy supplier:
- Some suppliers are obligated to deliver GBIS.
- Not all installers cover all areas, so compare a few.
- Some suppliers are obligated to deliver GBIS.
- Assessment and installation:
- An installer will assess your home.
- If eligible, they’ll carry out the insulation at low or no cost to you.
- An installer will assess your home.
Do You Need to Pay Anything?
Most private renters will not need to pay. The scheme is fully funded for low-income or vulnerable households. However, for others in the general eligibility group, there might be a small contribution, especially for more expensive insulation measures.
Your installer will inform you about any costs before starting the work.
What if Your Landlord Refuses?
Unfortunately, without landlord consent, the work can’t proceed.
However, you can try:
- Explaining the energy savings and property value improvement.
- Offering to handle the application process.
- Showing there’s no upfront cost for them in most cases.
If they still refuse, there’s no legal obligation for them to participate—but some councils are beginning to encourage landlords to make their properties more energy-efficient, especially under Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Can You Still Apply If You’re in a Shared House (HMO)?
Yes—but it’s a bit trickier:
- The landlord still needs to give permission.
- The property needs to meet EPC and tax band criteria.
- The application may focus on whole-house improvements, not just one tenant’s room.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a private renter struggling with high energy bills, GBIS can help—but your landlord must be on board. Start by checking your eligibility, then have an open conversation with your landlord. With the scheme offering insulation upgrades at little or no cost, it’s a win-win for tenants and landlords alike.