The capital’s first boiler replacement scheme has been launched, announced by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.
The London Boiler Cashback Scheme is offering £400 in cashback when old, inefficient boilers are replaced to 6,500 of the capital’s homeowners and private landlords.
London Landlords to Receive Cashback on Old Boilers
The scheme works on a first-come, first-served basis, so landlords are being encouraged to apply early.
Private landlords or their letting agents must be accredited with the London Rental Standard in order to be considered. They can apply for cashback on more than one property, so long as they meet the scheme’s requirements.
Replacing an old, inefficient boiler with a new, efficient version can be beneficial in many ways; a more efficient boiler can mean average savings of £340 per year, as well as a warmer, more comfortable home. It also substantially reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
It is hoped that the scheme as a whole will significantly cut carbon emissions and improve air quality across London.
If you are considering applying for the scheme, the following rules apply:
- The current boiler must be 70% or less energy efficient – usually a G rated boiler that is either gas, LPG, solid fuel or oil fuelled – in working order and the main boiler used to heat the property.
- The replacement must be a gas boiler that is A rated – at least 90% energy efficient – or a renewable/low carbon heating technology.
- The installer must be a Gas Safe registered installer, a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installer or equivalent, or a member of a competent persons scheme, such as OFTEC or HETAS.
When you apply, you must provide details of the boiler to be replaced, along with those of the heating engineer. You will then receive a voucher, after which the boiler can be replaced.
Vouchers are valid for 12 weeks from the date of issue, in which time the boiler must be installed. To receive the £400 cashback, you must then send back proof of installation, along with the voucher, no later than ten working days after the expiry date of the voucher.
For more information on the scheme, details of how to apply and the terms and conditions, visit: www.london.gov.uk/boilers