NRLA responds to scrapping of Green Homes Grants

Following the government’s decision to end the Green Homes Grant, the NRLA urges the government to adopt a more long-term approach to upgrading properties to meet its zero-carbon target by 2050. 

The scrapping of the grants follows a range of well-documented challenges which have emerged following the introduction of the scheme. Many private rented sector landlords were unable to take advantage of the scheme due to the initial short deadline, continued problems with finding Trustmark accredited installers, and eligibility issues regarding the primary and secondary measures.

Responding to this announcement, Ben Beadle, CEO said: 

“The Green Homes Grant was fraught with problems, not least the complexity and limitations of getting work done and approved. The government’s decision to scrap it proves that a new, long-term plan for upgrading properties is needed.

“The NRLA have consistently called for further funding to be made available to help landlords to go above and beyond the legal minimum of energy efficiency measures set out by the government for the private rented sector.

“Moreover, we believe the government should authorise the wider use of Building Renovation Passports, which can greatly assist landlords in their efforts to decarbonise rental properties.

“It’s also crucial that the government takes steps to clarify how energy efficiency measures can be applied to properties which are not covered by the ‘cost-effective, practical and affordable’ criteria. 

“In our view these proposals can help to provide a useful starting point for a longer-term strategy to energy efficiency.”
 

More information

• Further information on the NRLA's Green Homes Grant campaign can be found here.
• You can view the Government's previous press release and information about the Green Homes Grant scheme here.
• To read one of our recent press releases on the Green Homes Grant, then click here.