The Warmer Kiwi Homes Programme provides a grant that covers 67% of the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation for low-income homeowners.
“If your home does not have insulation yet, now is a good time to do something about it.” This is a timely suggestion from the Cambridge Citizens Advice team. “A properly insulated home is easier to heat in this chilly weather and will be a comfortable temperature during those balmy summer days.”
The Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes Programme, which provided a 50 per cent subsidy to low income homeowners and landlords with low income tenants, has been replaced by the Warmer Kiwi Homes Programme. This Programme started on 1 July 2018 for low-income homeowners. It provides a grant that covers 67% of the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation in the home. You can find out whether you are eligible by contacting a registered insulation provider on the Energywise website, www.energywise.govt.nz.
If you are renting and your landlord has missed out on the Warm Up New Zealand grant, they have a legal obligation to have insulation installed in the rental property by July 1, 2019.
To help keep your home warm, there are strategies that won’t cost too much, such as blocking draughts under doors and around windows, putting rugs on your floor and covering your windows with lined curtains. If you have a SuperGold Card, remember to ask for a discount on heating products and the Winter Heating Payment is presently being paid to those who receive Work and Income Benefits and Superannuation.
To talk about this, or any issue, call in at Cambridge Citizens Advice Bureau, 62 Alpha Street, Cambridge between 9.00 and 4.30 weekdays. Alternatively, phone 07 827 4855, free on 0800 367 222, or email: cambridge@cab.org.nz. Or for more information visit: www.cab.org.nz
