The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the Warmer Homes Scheme on behalf of my Department. Individual applications to the Warmer Homes Scheme are an operational matter for the SEAI, as Minister I have no role in such matters. SEAI has established a dedicated email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly. The email address is oireachtas@seai.ie. Applicants can also contact SEAI at any time to get further information on the status of their application either by email to warmerhomes@seai.ie or by telephone to 01 808 2005. My officials work with SEAI on an ongoing basis, and I understand that SEAI has been in contact with the homeowner in relation to the issues raised.
SEAI operate under a Customer Charter and a complaints and appeals procedure. If after following this procedure an applicant is not satisfied with the outcome, they can ask the Office of the Ombudsman for an independent review of the complaint. Further details are available here: www.seai.ie/customer-charter/.
It is important to note that SEAI apply all terms and conditions for the scheme equally to all applicants. The terms and conditions published as part of the scheme guidelines can be found on the SEAI website at: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/fully-funded-upgrades-for-eligible-homes/SCHEME-GUIDELINES.pdf.
For each eligible home under the scheme an SEAI technical surveyor will recommend which upgrades can be funded and installed. The SEAI approach is determined by the Building Regulations, incorporating the NSAI S.R.54: 2014 Code of practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings. The upgrades recommended will depend on many factors, including age, size, type and condition of the property. All upgrades installed under the scheme must be compliant with the Building Regulations.
The Deputy may wish to note that Government also has other schemes and supports in place which may be of assistance where there is an urgent need:
• The Department of Social Protection's Additional Needs Payment is a payment available to people who have essential expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income. Additional Needs Payments are paid under Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is administered by the Community Welfare Service (CWS) or the Department of Social Protection. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/4eb45-additional-needs-payment/.
• The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's Housing Adaptation Grants can assist older people to have necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works carried out in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/.
