Financial Incentives Offered for Landlords Without Central Heating

A new scheme has been launched by the Leeds council to provide financial incentives to landlords and renters of properties without gas central heating. This initiative will offer energy-saving green measures free of charge or at a significant discount. The programme is a result of a collaboration between the council’s Home Energy Help team and energy services provider Everwarm Ltd, and is supported by £15.5m of government funding secured for Leeds homes from the Home Upgrade Grant until March 2025.

The upgrades available include various types of insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and electric radiators. These measures aim to address heat loss and improve energy efficiency, making it easier and more cost-effective to maintain a comfortable temperature in existing buildings.

Under the scheme, homeowners who qualify will have the opportunity to have these upgrades fitted completely free of charge, while eligible landlords can benefit from a two-thirds discount to install the same improvements. Everwarm will work with applicants to determine the combination of upgrades that will best improve the energy efficiency rating of their property, with applications being processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

In 2020, one-in-six households in Leeds were classified as living in fuel poverty, meaning they reside in relatively inefficient homes with an income below the poverty line after paying energy bills. This has led to the council prioritizing the improvement of energy efficiency and quality of homes in Leeds, with the potential to positively impact health, poverty alleviation, and the city’s carbon footprint.

To learn more about the benefits of energy upgrades, access impartial energy-efficiency advice, and find out about the financial support available, residents can visit www.leeds.gov.uk/homeenergy. Councillor Mohammed Rafique, council executive member for climate, energy, environment, and green space, emphasized the significance of this initiative and encouraged residents to check their eligibility for the scheme and take advantage of the available funding while it lasts.

In conclusion, this new scheme in Leeds holds the potential to significantly improve living conditions for residents in off-gas households, while also contributing to the city’s environmental goals. With a focus on alleviating fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions, the initiative is a step towards creating a more sustainable and equitable community in Leeds.