For the past 3 years, our team at Consumer Rights has been dedicated to helping residents of Cardiff and the surrounding areas lower their energy bills while supporting the UK’s carbon reduction goals.

With funding available through ECO4 (supported by LA Flex) and The Great British Insulation Scheme, we are committed to ensuring eligible households in Cardiff can access the support they rightfully deserve.

So how and why do we do this?

ECO4 and similar grants have been introduced to support the UK Government’s goal of achieving Net Zero Emissions. At Consumer Rights CIC, we are committed to playing our part in this effort by helping households improve their energy efficiency.

In Cardiff, the average EPC rating is approximately 64.2, placing most homes within band D—slightly above the national average for England and Wales.

For private rental properties in Cardiff, landlords are legally required to ensure their properties have a minimum energy efficiency rating of band E. Properties rated F or G cannot be rented out unless a valid exemption applies.

At Consumer Rights CIC, we have been actively supporting residents in Cardiff and the surrounding areas by helping them improve their EPC ratings through government-backed schemes such as ECO4 and The Great British Insulation Scheme.

Why are these schemes needed in Cardiff?

Cardiff, like many other cities, has a mix of housing types, with a notable proportion of older homes. Many of these properties were built before modern energy efficiency standards:

  • Pre-1919 homes: Cardiff has a significant number of Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses that tend to have poor insulation and are energy inefficient.
  • Interwar and post-war homes: Properties built between the two World Wars (1920s-1930s) and in the mid-20th century generally have better foundations, but still often need retrofitting to meet modern energy standards.

EPC Ratings for Cardiff

  • C and above (good energy efficiency): Around a quarter to a third of homes in Cardiff are estimated to have an EPC rating of C or better, based on recent data. These homes are considered energy-efficient but could still benefit from further upgrades like solar panels or modern heating systems.
  • D (average efficiency): The most common EPC rating in Cardiff is D. These homes are typically older properties with standard insulation and heating systems but could achieve better energy efficiency with upgrades.
  • E (poor efficiency): A small number of properties in Cardiff have an E rating, indicating poor energy efficiency and likely higher energy bills. Many of these homes are pre-1919 terraced houses with solid walls and outdated heating systems.
  • F-G (very poor efficiency): Properties with an F or G rating are the least common but indicate very poor energy efficiency. These homes generally require significant upgrades to meet modern energy standards.

To be eligible for government funding, a property must have an EPC rating of D or below, meaning many properties in Cardiff already meet the first qualifying criterion.

Cardiff’s Energy Efficiency Challenges

Cardiff has a higher proportion of lower-income households, making energy bills a heavy financial burden for many residents. According to the latest data from Cardiff Council, a significant number of residents experience fuel poverty.

How Consumer Rights Can Help

Consumer Rights is here to assist you in accessing the ECO4 Scheme. We manage a network of Government-approved installers who can carry out necessary home improvements to enhance your property’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re looking to upgrade insulation, install a more efficient heating system, or explore renewable energy options, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Procedure for Applying for ECO4 Funding

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 believe you might qualify for funding, feel free to reach out. Our team is full of expertise and would be more than happy to offer you further guidance.