This is the scheme most people mean when they say "the free insulation". It covers attic and wall insulation, draught-proofing, lagging jackets and energy-efficient lighting, and sometimes new windows or heating.
Quick facts
- Cost to you
- Nothing; the SEAI pays
- Your home
- Owned, lived in, built before 2006
- Your payment
- Fuel Allowance, WFP, DCA, OFP, Carer's Allowance; JA or DA 6 months with a child under 7
- BER
- Arranged free if you have none
- Again?
- Yes, if you still qualify
Who qualifies
"The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides free home energy upgrades to homeowners who get certain social welfare payments." "You must own your home and be living in it Your home must have been built and occupied before 2006 Your home must be suitable for the upgrades."
"You must be getting one of these social welfare payments: Fuel Allowance Working Family Payment Jobseeker’s Allowance for over 6 months and have a child aged under 7 Disability Allowance for over 6 months and have a child aged under 7 Domiciliary Care Allowance One Parent Family Payment Carer's Allowance and you must live with the person you care for"
"If you have only started getting one of these payments, wait 5-6 weeks after your first payment before you make your application."
What the scheme does
The SEAI surveys the home and decides the upgrades. "If you do not have a BER for your home, the SEAI will arrange a free BER for you." "If you qualify for a new central heating system, the scheme will not cover a new fossil fuel boiler, such as an oil or gas boiler."
If you have had work done before
"You can apply for the free upgrades more than once." "To access the scheme again you must still meet the qualifying criteria." "The scheme prioritises the oldest and least energy efficient homes."
How to apply
Apply online through the SEAI, or send the application form by post. The SEAI checks your payment with the Department, surveys the home, then arranges a contractor. Waiting times run to many months because of demand; the SEAI's other grants are available in the meantime if you can pay a share.
Common questions
Is the Warmer Homes Scheme free?
Yes. The SEAI pays for the upgrades in full for homeowners who qualify.
Which payments qualify for the Warmer Homes Scheme?
Fuel Allowance, Working Family Payment, Domiciliary Care Allowance, One-Parent Family Payment, Carer's Allowance if you live with the person you care for, and Jobseeker's Allowance or Disability Allowance for over 6 months with a child under 7.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, if your home would benefit and you still meet the qualifying criteria.
Does it cover windows or a new boiler?
Windows and central heating are occasionally covered, but a new oil or gas boiler is not.