Free central heating systems for homes across Northumberland
Eligible homes in Northumberland could be in line to receive free central heating systems thanks to a project being led by the county council.
The NCC and six other North East councils, have been awarded almost £1.4m in funding from the Warm Homes Fund to install central heating systems in parts of the region.
The Warm Homes Fund is a £150m fund administered by Affordable Warmth Solutions across England, Wales and Scotland, designed to help households who can’t afford to keep their homes at a warm and healthy temperature.
To qualify you must be an owner occupier, or have a private landlord if you rent, in one of the seven local authorities which includes Northumberland County Council;
To qualify you must i). Live in a property which does not have, and never has had a central heating system, or where the main method of heating is by the use of solid fuels.
And one of the following:
ii).Live in a qualifying postcode area
iii). Be in receipt of a specified benefit, including income-related job seekers allowance or income support; or be classed as being in fuel poverty.
The funding will see central heating systems installed in more than 300 homes in the partner local authority areas.
In Northumberland potentially eligible properties have been identified using information provided from the Energy Performance Certificate register and the council has sent letters to those specified detailing how they can apply for the fund.
Eligible residents have until May 31st to apply for the free installation.
If a property qualifies a survey will then be carried out to work out the best type of heating system for the property.
The project is also supported by the Citizens Advice Bureau and Community Action Northumberland, who can provide additional services to residents, including helping ensure you are on the best fuel tariff and improving energy efficiency in the home.
Cllr Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for economic development at the council, said: “We want to install central heating systems in homes where it will make the most difference.
“For you to qualify, the installation of a new central heating system must improve the energy rating of your home. This will be determined by our surveyor at the whole house assessment stage, once your application has been approved.”
To check their eligibility residents can call (01670) 624140 or go to the website www.northumberland.gov.uk.whf
