Improvement measures can include installing new boilers, putting in wall and floor insulation, and more.

Many of the companies approved to carry out these improvements often arrive at homes unannounced, and East Renfrewshire Council’s Trading Standards team is advising residents to ask questions, check if they qualify for any funding before agreeing to have the work carried out and never sign an agreement without reading it.

There are currently four funding initiatives in operation:

The Local Authority ECO Flex scheme

The funding for this scheme is provided by the main gas and electricity companies in Scotland, who are under an obligation to spend some of their profits on improving home energy efficiency.

The council approves the eligibility of applications put forward by the approved contractors on behalf of householders for the grant funding, but does not have a contract with the installers to carry out work in the private sector and, as such, does not monitor the work and cannot take any responsibility for any work the homeowner has agreed to.

Householders must be satisfied that they’re happy to sign any contract directly with the installers. No upfront payment is needed and work can’t start until the application for grant funding has been approved.

Energy Efficient Scotland (EES) - area based schemes

Under this scheme (formerly known as HEEPS) local authorities get funding from the Scottish Government to deliver energy efficiency programmes (mainly solid wall insulation) to homes in areas with high levels of fuel poverty. Homes in Council Tax bands A to C within certain postcode areas of East Renfrewshire will be contacted by an approved contractor if they qualify to have work carried out.

Warmer Homes Scotland

Warmer Homes Scotland is the Scottish Government’s national scheme to tackle fuel poverty in Scotland. It provides insulation, efficient heating and renewable technologies in the homes of households which are struggling with the costs of high energy bills to keep their homes warm.

Residents can only be referred to this scheme by Home Energy Scotland who will advise if the household qualifies to have work carried out under this initiative. If the household is eligible, a survey will be completed and work carried out by an approved contractor.

Home Energy Scotland Loans

For those residents who are not eligible for funding under the ECO, EES or Warmer Homes Scotland, an interest free loan may be available to households in Scotland who wish to make energy efficient improvements to their home.