With homeowners struggling to find tradesmen for the Green Homes Grant, the government has extended the scheme so that more people may make use of it to improve their homes.

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With many people struggling to take full advantage of the scheme, the Government has announced that it has extended its Green Homes Grant scheme by a year.

“The Green Homes Grant scheme gives homeowners and landlords right across the country a cheaper way to make their homes more energy efficient and cut their bills – all while making their contribution to tackling climate change,” said Minister for Climate Change Lord Callanan.

“Today’s announcement means an extra year to take advantage of this new scheme, helping households and tradespeople who can plan their workload and create new jobs in their communities. I would urge anyone to visit the Green Homes Grants website and see how they could benefit.”

Read more: What is the Green Homes Grant?

Why is the scheme being extended?

The scheme was initially scheduled to finish on March 31st 2021, however homeowners were finding it difficult to find tradesmen who were approved to carry out the work under the grant to do so within the short window originally set out by the scheme. 21,000 homeowners and landlords registered their interest in the first weeks after the scheme was launched.

“The extension of the Green Homes Grant for another year is very positive news, and shows that builders’ concerns have been listened to,” said Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders.

To qualify to undertake work in relation to the Green Homes Grant, tradespeople need to be TrustMark approved or have used the Micro Certification Scheme (MCS).

Read more: How to find a tradesperson for your Green Homes Grant project

How long will the Green Homes Grant run until?

Exactly a year, so you’ll have until March 31st 2022 to make use of the Green Homes Grant. Green Homes Grant vouchers are valid for 3 months from the date they are issued or until 31 March 2022, unless extenuating circumstances apply.

Can work be completely during COVID-19 restrictions?

According to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, tradespeople, including Green Homes Grant installers, can continue to work in people’s homes under the national restrictions from 5th November. You can still apply for a grant and get the work done. Your installer will follow the COVID-19 Secure guidelines-19 Secure guidelines.

If you would prefer, to minimise contact during national restrictions, you can ask your installer to provide a quote remotely using a video call or detailed photos.

 

Will you be applying for the Green Homes Grant? Tweet us @goodhomesmag or post a comment on our Facebook page. 

 

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