Why won't they insulate my odd-shaped roof?

19/03/2008

This government (and the opposition) make much of trying to make sure all homes use the minimum of energy. To this end the Assembly Government of Wales instituted a scheme whereby vulnerable people (pensioners, disabled etc.) could have their homes insulated at minimum or even no cost all - depending on their eligibilty for certain benefits.

Some months ago we received a flyer through the door to say that the local council were starting a scheme whereby those who qualified would get their homes insulated plus £100 off their council tax if in receipt of certain benefits. Being pensioners we filled in the accompanying form and sent it off - even though having savings we don't qualify for anything free.

We heard nothing for at least six months.

Meanwhile, hearing of the British Gas scheme we rang them up and were put in touch with a local firm that would do our roof insulation for £274. We were about to accept this when we at last had a reply from the council. To our surprise the same firm was involved only this time the cost was £160.

 

Delighted, we arranged for a survey to be carried out. When the young man arrived he took one look at our loft space and informed us that the work could not be done as there was "not enough room to manoeuvre". We contacted our local councillor but despite his best efforts the answer was unchanged. They would do our cavity wall (already done by us years ago) but not the roof.

But surely we cannot be the only pensioners in the country with odd-shaped roofs on their houses? The house in question was built in 1919 and there are many houses locally built by the same architect. So what are we to do? The increasing cost of gas and electricity is making inroads on our limited budget and any help would be very much appreciated. While in contact with the firm concerned we also asked about replacing our 20-year old boiler. The answer was we would have to wait until it gave up the ghost completely. With our luck that would probably be in the middle of winter.

It seems to me that the powers-that-be are being rather selective as to who they will help. Once again we are being penalised for having saved for a rainy day. It's starting to pour down now and our "umbrella" is getting rather threadbare.

Marcia Price

 

Have YOU had a poor experience applying for low-cost insulation? email editorial@maturetimes.co.uk.