External Wall Insulation Grants in Birmingham: A 2024 Brief Guide

EWI offers several benefits to homeowners. Firstly, it can significantly reduce energy bills by improving the thermal efficiency of a property, meaning less energy is required to heat or cool the home. Additionally, EWI helps to increase the comfort of living spaces by reducing drafts and cold spots. It also improves the overall appearance of a property, can increase its value, and may even extend the lifespan of the building by protecting the walls from weather damage.

There are various materials used in EWI systems, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, phenolic foam, and polyurethane foam. Each material has its own properties and benefits. EPS is lightweight and easy to install, while mineral wool offers excellent fire resistance. Phenolic foam provides high thermal performance with thinner insulation thicknesses, and polyurethane foam offers good moisture resistance and durability. The choice of material depends on factors such as budget, desired insulation performance, and local building regulations.

Through the ECO 4 scheme, families with low income (making £31,000 or less per year) or those getting certain government benefits can get free grants. Homeowners and some renters might qualify for grants to install external wall insulation in 2024.

The qualifying benefits include:

Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
Income-related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support (IS)
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
Working Tax Credit (WTC)
Child Tax Credits (CTC)
Universal Credit (UC)
Housing Benefit (new eligible benefit under ECO4)
Pension Credit Savings Credit (new eligible benefit under ECO4)

If you part own your home with a Housing Association, as long as you own at least 50% you could still be eligible for a grant. If you are a Council or Housing Association tenant, you should speak to them directly or contact the Energy Saving Trust who might be able to help you.

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) also earmarks funding for low energy efficiency households (EPC rating of D or below) and with the lowest Council Tax bands (A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales).

The impact of EWI on energy bills
External wall insulation (EWI) can significantly reduce energy bills by improving the thermal efficiency of a home. By adding a layer of insulation to the exterior walls, EWI helps to trap heat inside during colder months and keep out excess heat during warmer months. This means that less energy is required to heat or cool the home, resulting in lower energy bills throughout the year. With better insulation provided by EWI, homeowners can enjoy a more comfortable indoor environment while spending less on heating and cooling costs.

Estimated savings for different property types
The estimated savings from EWI can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, its current level of insulation, and local climate conditions. However, studies have shown that homeowners can expect to save anywhere from 10% to 40% on their energy bills after installing EWI. Larger properties with poorer insulation may see higher savings, while smaller properties with existing insulation may experience more modest reductions in energy costs. Overall, EWI offers an effective way for homeowners to reduce their energy expenses and increase the energy efficiency of their homes.

Measures covered by EWI grants
EWI grants typically cover the cost of materials and installation for approved energy efficiency measures, including insulation upgrades, such as external wall insulation, loft insulation, and cavity wall insulation. These grants may also support other energy-saving improvements, such as double glazing, energy-efficient heating systems, and renewable energy technologies like solar panels. By providing financial assistance for these measures, EWI grants make it easier for homeowners to invest in energy-efficient upgrades that can lower their energy bills, improve home comfort, and reduce their environmental impact.

Initiating the grant application process
To begin the process of applying for an external wall insulation (EWI) grant, homeowners typically need to contact their local authority or relevant government agency responsible for administering the program. They may be required to fill out an application form and provide information about their property, such as its size, age, and current energy efficiency measures. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed to determine eligibility for the grant.

Suitability property survey
Before receiving approval for an EWI grant, homeowners may need to undergo a suitability property survey conducted by an accredited assessor. This survey assesses the property’s current energy efficiency and identifies areas where improvements, such as external wall insulation, are needed. The survey helps ensure that the proposed energy-saving measures are appropriate for the property and will effectively reduce energy consumption and improve thermal comfort.