Customer Rights – Helping People – Helping Newcastle

Our team at Consumer Rights CIC has been assisting residents of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the past three years in lowering their energy costs and making a positive impact on the UK’s carbon emissions.

We are dedicated to assisting Newcastle residents in obtaining the funding to which they are entitled to, with both ECO4 and The Great British Installation Scheme (backed by LA Flex) accessible to eligible households.

So how and why do we do this?

ECO4 and other government-backed grants have been introduced to help the UK achieve its Net Zero emissions target. At Consumer Rights, we are dedicated to supporting this initiative. 

In Newcastle, as with the rest of England, the average EPC rating for homes falls within band D. According to recent data, the avergae EPC score for England is 68, which is at the upper end of band D. For private rental properties in Newcastle, as in the rest of England, it is indeed mandatory to have an energy efficiency rating of at least band E on the EPC Register. This aligns with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) introduced in 2018. Properties rated F or G cannot be legally rented out unless they have a valid exemption. However, it’s worth noting that there are plans to raise the minimum EPC rating for rental properties to C by 2030 as part of the UK’s efforts to improve energy efficiency in housing.

Customer Rights Supporting Newcastle Homes

Through local efforts to increase energy efficiency and government-backed programs like ECO4, Consumer Rights has been actively helping Newcastle people raise their property’s EPC rating.

In terms of energy efficiency, Newcastle City Council has secured funding to retrofit homes with measures such as insulation, low-carbon heating, and solar panels, aiming to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Retrofitting existing homes is crucial for achieving the city’s Net Zero target by 2030, as older homes are significant contributors to carbon emissions.

EPC Ratings for Newcastle

  • C and above (good energy efficiency): Around 30-35% of homes in Newcastle have an EPC rating of C or higher. These properties are relatively energy-efficient but could still benefit from further improvements, such as solar panels or modern heating systems.
  • D (moderate efficiency): The majority of homes in Newcastle have an EPC rating of D. These properties typically have standard insulation and heating systems but could achieve greater efficiency through upgrades.
  • E (poor efficiency): A smaller percentage of properties in Newcastle fall into band E, indicating poor energy performance. These homes often face higher energy bills due to outdated insulation and inefficient heating systems.
  • F-G (very poor efficiency): Properties with an F or G rating have the lowest energy efficiency. These homes require substantial upgrades, such as insulation, heating system replacements, and double glazing, to meet modern energy standards.

A significant percentage of homes in Newcastle are eligible for energy efficiency improvement programs since properties must have an EPC rating of D or lower in order to be eligible for government funding.

Procedure for Applying for ECO4 Funding

Consumer Rights is here to assist you in gaining access to the ECO4 funding and the GBIS 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.