The Warmer Homes Scheme is SEAI's fully-funded home energy upgrade programme for eligible low-income households, aimed at reducing energy poverty by improving insulation and heating at no direct cost to the qualifying homeowner. This page is general information, not an eligibility determination.
Who is generally eligible
Eligibility is generally based on home ownership and receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment — such as certain long-term illness, disability, or means-tested payments administered by the Department of Social Protection — rather than income alone. The property also generally needs to have been built before a certain date, similar to other SEAI retrofit grants. Exact qualifying payments and criteria are set by SEAI and can change, so confirming your own eligibility directly is important rather than assuming based on a general description.
What works are generally included
Depending on the home's specific needs, works can include attic and wall insulation, draught-proofing, ventilation upgrades, and in some cases a heating system upgrade — all assessed and carried out by SEAI-contracted or registered contractors as part of the scheme, at no cost to the homeowner if approved. The specific package of works is decided by SEAI following an initial survey of the home, not chosen freely by the applicant.
How to apply
Applications are generally made directly through SEAI rather than through a private contractor, and there can be a significant waiting list given demand for the scheme — applying as early as possible and keeping documentation of the qualifying payment on hand generally helps the process move smoothly.
Key takeaways
Check your qualifying payment and home ownership status against SEAI's current criteria before applying, apply directly through SEAI rather than a private contractor claiming to represent the scheme, and expect the process to take time given typical demand.