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
Customer Rights – Helping People – Helping Chichester
Lowering energy costs and supporting the UK’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions are two important goals that our team at Consumer Rights CIC has been addressing in close collaboration with Chichester and the surrounding areas over the past few years.
With the Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 (backed by LA Flex) accessible to eligible homes, we are dedicated to helping the residents of Chichester get the funding that they are entitled to.
So how and why do we do this?
ECO4 and similar grants have been established to support the UK Government in reaching its Net Zero emissions target. At Consumer Rights, we are committed to contributing to this effort.
In line with the national average for England and Wales, Chichester’s average home Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is in band D. Landlords in Chichester are legally obligated to make sure their private rental houses have an energy efficiency rating of at least band E on the EPC Register. The goal of this regulation is to increase the area’s rental housing stock’s overall energy efficiency. In order to guarantee that rental properties fulfil minimal energy efficiency requirements.
Properties with a F or G rating cannot be rented out unless they are eligible for a legitimate exception.
Through government-backed programmes like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, Consumer Rights CIC have been actively helping people in Chichester and the surrounding district improve the EPC ratings of their properties.
The city is home to an array of property types, most of which are older and in need of energy efficiency upgrades:
Chichester has a significant number of historic properties, including Victorian and Edwardian houses, which often suffer from poor insulation and energy inefficiency. These buildings typically have solid walls and inadequate insulation, contributing to higher energy consumption.
The presence of older properties in Chichester can make retrofitting for energy efficiency more complex and expensive, as these buildings often require more extensive upgrades to meet modern energy standards.
EPC Ratings for Chichester
- C and above (good energy efficiency): Approximately 44% of properties in Chichester District have an EPC rating of C or above. These homes are considered energy-efficient but may still benefit from further upgrades such as renewable energy systems or improved insulation.
- D (average efficiency): A significant portion of homes in Chichester fall into the EPC band D category. This is consistent with the national average for England and Wales. These properties often have standard insulation and heating systems but could become more energy-efficient with targeted improvements.
- E (poor efficiency): A notable number of properties in Chichester have an E rating, indicating subpar energy efficiency and potentially higher energy costs. Many homes in this category are older buildings, particularly those constructed before modern energy efficiency standards were implemented.
- F-G (very poor efficiency): A small percentage of Chichester’s housing stock falls into the F or G ratings, signifying very poor energy efficiency. These properties typically require substantial upgrades to meet current energy standards and are likely facing the highest energy bills.
To be eligible for government funding through energy efficiency schemes, a property must generally have an EPC rating of D or below. Given that a significant number of properties in Chichester fall into these categories, many households may be eligible for energy efficiency improvement programs.
How local authority support works
Consumer Rights is here to assist you in gaining access to the ECO4 funding and GBIS, allowing you to install energy-saving measures in your residence. Determine your eligibility and submit an application.
How to check what support you can get
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.