£2800 for fitting 45m2 of underfloor insulation...!

jules153

I've looking to get some underfloor insulation fitted under the Green Homes Grant Scheme. I'll be paying 1/3. Looked up a local supplier via the official TrustMark website... [the other 2 local suppliers are 'too busy' or 'not doing the scheme at present']

Sent them full details including photos of the access hatch and floorplans. The underfloor area is 2 to 3 ft deep so not huge but electricians and plumbers have been under no problem.

Quote emailed back:

Supply & Fit Knauf OMNI Earthwool 200mm with netting (45m2), 16hours labour - £2,250.00
Enabling works: floor protection film, removal of all waste, Covid PPE protocol including sanitisation - £540.00

Total - £2,790.00

Checking the internet you can get the Knauf OMNI Earthwool 200mm for about £19 inc VAT for 4m2... so there's absolute max £350 for materials...

Is this a case of limited workmen able to do the work so they are ripping people and the taxpayer off? I'm shocked to be honest....

Silvertabby

£140 per HOUR for labour?  Either they are having a laugh or they have deliberately over-quoted because they don't want the job.

jules153

Silvertabby said:

£140 per HOUR for labour?  Either they are having a laugh or they have deliberately over-quoted because they don't want the job.

Yes they are having a laugh, but since the taxpayer picks up 2/3 or the whole bill they are simply ripping the country off.

£540 for some covid hand gel...?

ARH_2

As the taxpayer is paying for 2/3 of it, everyone is at least doubling their prices, knowing that it's still a discount to you. Get a quote from someone not participating in the scheme a there's a chance it'll come out cheaper, given its £350 materials plus 2 days work, (c.£400). 

I experienced similar when trying to find someone to insulate my loft, so looks like I'll end up doing it myself. 

jules153

ARH_2 said:

As the taxpayer is paying for 2/3 of it, everyone is at least doubling their prices, knowing that it's still a discount to you. Get a quote from someone not participating in the scheme a there's a chance it'll come out cheaper, given its £350 materials plus 2 days work, (c.£400). 

I experienced similar when trying to find someone to insulate my loft, so looks like I'll end up doing it myself. 

Good point, thanks.