FAQs
Answers to the questions we hear most, grouped by where you are in the process.
Eligibility
You need to receive one of these payments
- Fuel Allowance
- Jobseeker's Allowance (6+ months, with a child under 7)
- Working Family Payment
- One-Parent Family Payment
- Domiciliary Care Allowance
- Carer's Allowance (and you live with the person you care for)
Who qualifies for the scheme?
You may qualify if you own your home, your home was built before 2006, and you receive one of the qualifying payments, such as Fuel Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance, Working Family Payment, One-Parent Family Payment, Domiciliary Care Allowance or Carer's Allowance.
What if I only get one of the listed payments?
That's all you need. You only have to receive one of the qualifying payments, not all of them.
Can I apply if I'm a tenant?
No, rented properties aren't covered under this scheme. Landlords can apply separately through the Better Energy Homes Scheme.
Can I apply if my house is stone or solid brick?
Stone or solid brick homes can't receive wall insulation, but they may still qualify for attic insulation and other measures.
Can I apply more than once?
No, you can only take part in this scheme once.
Applying
How do I apply?
Get in touch and we'll check you meet the criteria. We'll then send you an application form to complete and get signed and stamped by your local Department of Social Protection office. Send it back to us with proof of home ownership, and we'll submit it to SEAI on your behalf.
What documents do I need?
A signed, stamped application form, and proof of home ownership such as house insurance, deeds, a mortgage statement, or a Local Property Tax letter with a utility bill. Carer's Allowance applicants also need a completed Carer's Allowance Certification form.
Can I apply online?
Confirming with the scheme providerWe're confirming the current application process with the scheme provider.
What happens if my application is incomplete?
We'll get in touch to let you know exactly what's missing, so you can send it on and keep things moving.
Can I apply if I've already applied to SEAI directly?
Get in touch with us first. We'll check where your existing application stands before starting anything new, so you're not duplicating work.
The Works
What measures are covered?
We install cavity wall, attic, and external or internal wall insulation, plus draught proofing, ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting. Heating and window upgrades are sometimes included where a survey shows they're needed.
How long does installation take?
It depends on the work involved. Cavity wall insulation is often completed in a day. External or internal wall insulation can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Will I need to move furniture or belongings?
For internal wall insulation, the walls being worked on need to be cleared first. Your installer will tell you exactly what to move before work starts.
What happens during the home survey?
Once your application is submitted, SEAI arranges a survey of your home to confirm exactly which measures you qualify for. It's carried out on their behalf, at no cost to you.
Are windows or a new heating system included?
Sometimes. If the home survey identifies an inefficient heating system or single-glazed windows, these can be included alongside your main insulation works.
After You Apply
How long is the wait time?
Confirming with the scheme providerWe're confirming the current typical wait time with the scheme provider.
How will I know if I'm approved?
We'll be in touch to let you know as soon as we hear back from SEAI.
What happens if I'm not approved?
We'll explain why and let you know if there's anything else you can do. Get in touch if you have any questions about your application.
Who do I contact with questions?
Use the contact details on this site, or fill in the enquiry form and we'll get back to you.