Major milestone reached in new upgrades on Willow Lane...
A home on Willow Lane has become one of only 29 houses in Watford to achieve a current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘A’, following a series of major energy‑efficiency improvements funded through the Warm Homes Grant.
With a post‑works EPC score of 102, the property now holds the highest recorded EPC score for a non‑new, retrofitted home in the town, highlighting the impact that high‑quality energy upgrades can have on both comfort and carbon reduction.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This is a fantastic example of how investment in energy‑efficient homes can make a real difference for residents and for our town. Achieving an EPC ‘A’ rating, especially in a retrofitted property, is a major achievement. It shows what’s possible when households are supported to upgrade their homes, cut energy bills, and contribute to a cleaner, greener future for Watford.”
A Willow Lane resident said: “We are already noticing the difference, for example with the EPC rating used to be a ‘D’ and now its jumped right up to an ‘A’. These works have done good and we can feel that goodness too.”
Following a successful bid to the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) the Warm Homes Local Grant scheme is funding improvements to homes to reduce energy consumption, lower energy bills and help residents live in healthier, warmer homes. It also contributes to the UK’s broader ambition to reach net‑zero carbon emissions.
Eligible households can receive fully funded energy‑efficiency improvements worth up to £30,000 per home. Improvements may include:
- Wall, loft, and underfloor insulation
- Heating controls
- Draught‑proofing
- Double or triple glazing
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels
- Heat pumps
These upgrades help homes retain heat, reduce energy wastage, and improve comfort all year round.
Privately owned or privately rented homes with EPC ratings of D, E, F, or G may qualify through one of three routes:
- Location-based eligibility for selected streets in Watford
- Receiving a means‑tested benefit, such as:
- Housing Benefit
- Income‑based JSA
- Income‑related ESA
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Household income below £36,000 gross per year (excluding income from adults in full‑time education)
Residents who believe they may be eligible can contact Better Housing Better Health (BHBH):
- Phone: 0800 107 0044 (freephone, weekdays 9am–5pm)
- Email: Include your full name, address, and phone number
- Apply online
- View further information
