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Government cracks down on poor-quality insulation

Tamara Birch, senior writer, The Eco Experts
Written By
Published on 29 January 2025
  • Thirty-nine businesses have been suspended by the government
  • TrustMark found examples of substandard solid wall insulation
  • Ofgem has begun writing to infected households
man installing solid wall insulation

Thirty-nine businesses have been suspended from installing new insulation in people’s homes after ministers were alerted to reports of poor-quality work. 

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero reported that routine checks were carried out by TrustMark, an independent body that oversees tradespeople working in homes. 

TrustMark found examples of substandard solid wall insulation fitted since 2022 under the Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) and Great British Insulation Scheme.

The installers have since been suspended and the government has expanded checks of solid wall insulation measures installed under both schemes, and it has implemented a comprehensive plan to begin an immediate repair process. 

Energy regulator Ofgem has now begun writing to all affected households, explaining that qualified professionals have started a system of checking every installation under these schemes. 

Minister for energy consumers, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said that in some cases, an on-site visit will then follow to determine whether any insulation work carried out requires a repair.

“If it does, the certification body that oversees the installer, or TrustMark, will arrange to fix the problem,” Fahnbulleh said. 

She explained that installers responsible for “substandard work” will be forced to fix it “at no cost to households” and will remain banned from installing new solid wall insulation on any government scheme if they don’t comply.  

“The government is confident these systematic issues are particular to solid wall insulation under the ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme,” she continued. 

“This is because there is a stronger system of checks and balances in place for other energy efficiency schemes delivered through local authorities and social housing providers.” 

Written by

Tamara Birch, senior writer, The Eco Experts

Tamara is a London-based journalist and has written about environmental topics for more than four years. This includes advising small business owners on cost-effective ways, like solar panels and energy-efficient products, to help them become more sustainable.

She has used her journalist and research skills to become highly knowledgeable on sustainable initiatives, issues, and solutions to help consumers do their bit for the environment – all while reducing monthly costs.

In addition to adopting sustainable practices in her personal life, Tamara has worked in the retail B2B space to help independent retailers think about their environmental choices and how they can help improve their business. She now uses this knowledge to help consumers do the same.

Her passion for sustainability and eco-friendly solutions stems from a long obsession with nature and animals and ensuring they feel looked after. In her free time, Tamara enjoys reading fantasy novels, visiting the gym, and going on long walks in new areas.

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Maximilian Schwerdtfeger

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