ECO4 has closed to new applications — here's the help you can get now
ECO4 grants are no longer available. See the grants and funding you can get now.
In summary
For the past couple of years, our dedicated team at Consumer Rights CIC has been actively supporting Herefordshire residents in their efforts to lower energy costs and contribute to the UK’s carbon emission reduction goals.
With initiatives like ECO4 (enhanced by LA Flex) and The Great British Insulation Scheme available to eligible households, our team is committed to assisting Hereford residents in accessing the funding they deserve.
So how and why do we do this?
ECO4 and other similar grants have been introduced to support the UK Government reach its target of Net Zero Emission. At Consumer Rights, we are committed to doing our part. Here at Consumer Rights we are dedicated to playing our part in this.
Within Hereford, the average Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating for homes falls into band D. The distribution of EPC ratings across all homes in England and Wales is as follows: 0.21% A, 11.82% B, 27.75% C, 38.12% D, 16.16% E, 4.50% F, and 1.44% G. While specific data for Hereford is not provided, it’s likely to follow a similar pattern.
Properties rated F or G may not be legally rented out, unless there is a valid exemption.
Customer Rights has been actively assisting Herefordshire residents, particularly in Hereford, to enhance their property’s EPC ratings by accessing government-backed schemes such as ECO4 and The Great British Insulation Scheme.
These initiatives are particularly crucial in Herefordshire due to the county’s unique housing challenges:
Herefordshire has a diverse mix of housing types, with a significant proportion of older homes. Many of these properties were constructed before modern energy efficiency standards were implemented. Approximately 28% of Herefordshire’s homes were built before 1919, which is higher than the UK average. These older properties are often solid wall constructions, making them less energy-efficient and more challenging to insulate.
EPC Ratings for Hereford
- D (okay average efficiency): The most common EPC rating across England and Wales is D, accounting for 38.12% of properties. It’s likely that a large proportion of homes in Hereford also fall into this category. These properties have average energy efficiency and could benefit from upgrades to improve their rating.
- E (poor efficiency): Approximately 16.16% of properties in England and Wales have an E rating. Hereford may have a higher percentage in this category due to its older housing stock. Many of these properties were built before modern energy efficiency standards and may face higher energy bills.
- F-G (very poor efficiency): In England and Wales, about 5.94% of properties (4.50% F, 1.44% G) fall into these categories. Hereford, with its significant proportion of pre-1919 homes (28%), may have a higher percentage of F and G rated properties compared to the national average. These homes typically require substantial upgrades to meet modern energy standards.
To be eligible for government funding schemes, properties need to have an EPC rating of D or below.
Herefordshire, including Hereford, faces significant challenges with fuel poverty and energy efficiency. According to recent data, almost a third of Herefordshire households are living in fuel poverty, with official estimates putting the number at 23,876 households, or 28% of all households in the county. This is a substantial increase from 17% before the energy crisis, which was already above the national average.
Consumer Rights are here to assist you in gaining access to The ECO4 Scheme. We manage a Network of Government Approved Installers to carry out home improvements required to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
How local authority support works
Consumer Rights is here to assist you in gaining access to the ECO4 funding and the LA Flex Scheme, allowing you to install energy-saving measures in your residence. Determine your eligibility and submit an application.
How to Apply for ECO4 Funding:
1. Complete the Eligibility Checker
Visit our Eligibility Checker and use the tool to answer questions about your property and personal circumstances.
2. Centre Call Contact
After completing the checker, a member of our qualified contact centre team will call you. They will:
- Discuss your property and the upgrades available.
- Walk you through the application process.
- Help gather any required documents.
3. Property Survey and Upgrade Options
- The team will arrange for a survey of your property to assess the upgrades that can be offered.
- If you want to proceed, they will schedule a time to carry out the necessary work.
If you think you may be eligible for funding, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team has a wealth of knowledge and will be happy to advise you further.