New qualifying criteria for a HUG

The Government-funded scheme – run by Cosy Homes in Lancashire – is to help residents in low-income households make their homes more energy efficient.

The income threshold for a HUG (Home Upgrade Grant) has gone up by £5,000.

Previously, you could qualify if your household income was under £31,000. Now, if your household income is less than £36,000 gross, you could be eligible.

The grants are designed for residents who:

• Live in a property with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating D to G. (CHIL can arrange an EPC assessment as part of the application)
• Don’t have gas central heating installed (any other form of heating would qualify)
• Live in a qualifying postcode area
• Have a household income of less than £36,000 per year. (In exceptional circumstances consideration will be given if your income is above this threshold)

Under the new policy, electrically heated flats are also eligible to receive funding towards energy saving measures.

And, if you live in an eligible postcode area, your property will qualify regardless of income. Find out if your postcode is eligible https://www.chil.uk.com/home-upgrade-grant

The scheme runs until 31 March 2025. However, funding is allocated on a first come, first serve basis.

If you’ve applied before and were unsuccessful based on your income, if you meet the new income criteria, you can re-apply.

Pendle Borough Council’s Head of Housing and Environmental Health, Sarah Whitwell, said: “The aim of the grants is to help residents improve the warmth and comfort of their homes, whilst also reducing energy bills, carbon emissions and the levels of fuel poverty.

“Residents are being urged to check their eligibility and seek access to the grants as soon as possible.”

For more information and how to apply, visit https://www.chil.uk.com/