People in receipt of seven social welfare benefits are entitled to a completely free retrofit, the SEAI has confirmed. 

The Warmer Homes Scheme is designed to cut the nation’s carbon footprint, while helping those at highest risk of fuel poverty reduce their bills. 

On Lunchtime Live, SEAI Programme Manager Brian McIntyre said the scheme does not cost recipients a cent. 

“It’s fully covered by the State,” he explained. 

“We'll go out and assess the house and assign a package of works to a contractor, who comes out and does it for the homeowner. 

“And that's fully free to the homeowner.” 

A house undergoing a retrofit. Picture by: Global Warming Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Applicants must own their home, it must have been built before 2006 and have a BER of C, D, E or F. 

Once an application is approved, the contractor will provide the home owner with energy advice, energy efficient lighting and lagging jackets. 

They can also provide draught-proofing, attic insulation and wall insulation. 

SEAI will also determine whether new windows are needed “on a case-by-case basis”. 

People are eligible for the Warmer Homes Scheme if they are in receipt of the Fuel Allowance, the Working Family Payment, the Domiciliary Care Allowance or the One Parent Family Payment. 

Those in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Disability Allowance or the Carer’s Allowance are also eligible in certain circumstances.

Main image: Sustainable loft insulation. Picture by: Alamy.com.