The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a UK Government initiative aimed at providing financial support to install basic home insulation for households with lower energy performance.

Key Definition:
GBIS is a single-measure scheme focused on insulating homes with poor energy efficiency ratings (EPC D–G) in order to improve thermal comfort and reduce energy demand.

Unlike multi-measure energy schemes, GBIS funds one primary insulation improvement per property, such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, or solid wall insulation.

Who Is Eligible for the GBIS Grant?

The scheme is divided into two eligibility categories:

1. Low-Income Group (Core Group)

Households must meet all the following criteria:

  • Receive a qualifying benefit (e.g. Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support)
  • Own or rent a home with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G
  • The property must be suitable for insulation measures

2. General Group (Standard Group)

Households that:

  • Own a home in council tax bands A–D in England (A–E in Scotland and Wales)
  • Have an EPC rating of D–G
  • Do not need to be receiving benefits

This broader group was introduced to ensure middle-income households in less energy-efficient homes can still access funding for insulation.

What Measures Are Funded Under GBIS?

The scheme funds single insulation measures. These are selected based on the specific needs and existing condition of the property.

Eligible Measures Include:

  • Loft insulation
    Adds thermal material to loft space to prevent heat loss through the roof.
  • Cavity wall insulation
    Fills the gap between external walls with insulating material to improve thermal retention.
  • Solid wall insulation
    Applies insulation boards to internal or external walls to reduce heat escape.
  • Pitched roof insulation
    Suitable for homes with sloped roof structures requiring insulation along roofline.
  • Underfloor insulation
    Reduces heat loss through suspended ground floors, particularly in older properties.

The specific measure offered will depend on a property assessment by an approved installer.

How to Apply for the GBIS Grant

The GBIS scheme is delivered through obligated energy suppliers who contract with registered installation companies.

Application Process:

  1. Initial Enquiry
  2. Eligibility Assessment
    • Provide basic details such as income status, council tax band, and property EPC rating.
  3. Property Survey
    • If eligible, an accredited surveyor will visit your home to assess insulation needs.
  4. Installation
    • The supplier arranges a certified installer to carry out the agreed insulation measure.
  5. Post-Installation Follow-Up
    • Households may receive documentation confirming works completed and expected energy savings.

There is no need to repay the grant, but you must use a certified installer approved by the scheme.

What Is an EPC Rating and Why Does It Matter?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

Properties with lower EPC ratings (D–G) lose more heat, consume more energy, and are eligible for insulation support under GBIS.

Additional Notes on Rental Properties

Tenants in privately rented properties must obtain written consent from their landlord before any insulation measures are installed.

Landlords are encouraged to participate in the scheme to comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which require EPC ratings of E or above for rental properties in England and Wales.

Recommended Action Steps

If you think you may qualify for support through the Great British Insulation Scheme:

  1. Check your EPC rating using the government portal.
  2. Determine your eligibility under either the Low-Income Group or General Group.
  3. Contact your energy supplier to enquire about participating in the GBIS.
  4. Request a home survey from a certified insulation installer affiliated with the scheme.
  5. Secure landlord permission (if you are a tenant) before any installation begins.

Participation in the GBIS grant can result in significant long-term savings on energy bills and improved comfort in the home. Accurate assessment and approved installation are required to remain compliant with scheme guidelines.