Tens of thousands of homes fitted with botched eco insulation need fixing

Tens of thousands of homes require repairs due to poorly executed eco-insulation installations under a government scheme. A National Audit Office (NAO) report found that 98% of homes with external wall insulation and 29% with internal wall insulation from the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme have issues that will lead to damp and mould if not addressed. Some installations also pose immediate health and safety risks from faults like exposed electrical wiring. The scheme, which directed energy companies to spend billions from levies on insulating homes, particularly those receiving benefits, suffered from "clear failures" in its design. The NAO cited an under-skilled workforce, businesses cutting corners, and uncertainty over standards as contributing factors to the substandard work, alongside suspected fraud. Between 22,000 and 23,000 homes with external insulation and up to 13,000 with internal insulation need repairs. The government has acknowledged the failings, stating that affected homes will be fixed at no cost to consumers. Energy Consumer Minister Martin McCluskey described the issues as "unacceptable, systemic failings" left by the previous government and promised comprehensive reforms and clear accountability for future schemes. The report ... download the app to read more