Insulation grant

degsy_g · 13 August at 8:27AM

I had a visit from the surveyor following my request for cavity wall and loft insulation to EDF who supply my energy. I can't recall the name of the company they're using for the work in my area.

The surveyor had a quick look round and, unlike at my previous home, didn't seem that interested in the state of the cavity and whether it was suitable for taking the insulation - maybe the previous surveyor went overboard, I don't know. All he checked was that I didn't already have insulation in the cavity.

He then informed me that my home needed three fans and the grant only allowed one. These fans are £450 each fitted so my price for the work was £900. I already have a fan in the bathroom that comes on with the light but he said it would have to be replaced with one that is always on standby and comes on automatically dependent on the humidity level.

He then said he could quote me £800 to have cavity wall insulation added without the grant and then I wouldn't need the fans. However, that £800 wouldn't include the loft insulation top up that is required. He wasn't pushy, he said if I had a friend who was an electrician and could do the work cheaper I could have it done and then call them back. I told him to forget it, I didn't want the work done.

It seems ridiculous to me that I'm being asked to pay £900 for a grant that's worth possibly £1500 in my case. I know that I may save money in the long run but as the gas portion of my fuel bill is only around £25 a month it wouldn't be a quick payback. I could afford £900 but there are many people who would struggle to find that sort of money. This can't be right surely?