SEAI Warmer Homes Scheme
Completely free home energy upgrades for qualifying low-income households. SEAI arranges everything — insulation, heating, and more — at zero cost to you.
Last verified October 2026 against the official source ↗.
What is the Warmer Homes Scheme?
The SEAI Warmer Homes Scheme provides free energy efficiency upgrades to homes occupied by people on qualifying social welfare payments. Unlike the standard Better Energy Homes grant, there is no co-payment required — SEAI arranges and funds all works at absolutely no cost to the homeowner.
The scheme targets Ireland's most vulnerable households — those in energy poverty, where high heating costs relative to income create real hardship. Upgrades can dramatically cut energy bills and improve health outcomes.
What works are provided — free?
- Attic/roof insulation
- Wall insulation (cavity fill and external or internal dry lining)
- Draught-proofing
- Heating system upgrades (where the existing system is inadequate)
- Lagging jacket for hot water cylinders
- Energy-efficient lighting
- In some cases: windows and doors
Who qualifies?
To qualify for the Warmer Homes Scheme, you must be:
- The owner-occupier of the property
- In receipt of one of the following social welfare payments:
- Fuel Allowance
- Job Seeker's Allowance (for 6+ months) with a child under 7
- Working Family Payment
- One-Parent Family Payment
- Disability Allowance
- Carer's Allowance
- Domiciliary Care Allowance
- Living in a property with a BER rating of E, F, or G (poor energy rating)
How to apply
- Check you meet the eligibility criteria above
- Apply online at seai.ie/warmerhomes or by phone on 01 808 2100
- SEAI will add you to a waiting list and contact you when a contractor is available in your area
- A SEAI surveyor visits to assess your home
- Works are scheduled and completed — at no cost to you
Note: There is currently a waiting list for the Warmer Homes Scheme due to high demand. Apply as early as possible.
Common reasons for rejection
- No qualifying social welfare payment. Income alone doesn't qualify — you must be receiving one of the listed DSP payments.
- Not the owner-occupier (rental and vacant properties don't qualify).
- Home built or occupied after 2006.
- BER already B or better — the scheme targets homes rated C or lower.
- Works already carried out privately — SEAI must arrange the works.
Check your eligibility
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