The Mark Group cavity and loft insulation

[worrybynature]

So had a surveyor from The Mark Group knock on the door earlier to assess our house for 'free loft and cavity wall insulation'. He spent an hour here, testing the walls for depth, assessing loft space etc. I signed up to the scheme as he said our post code made us eligible for the free scheme.
However, I am now wondering what the catch is. Is this too good to be true? Anyone have experience of having this done? There is a 14 day cooling off period so can cancel it..

[lovingmatleave]

The Government have loads of schemes to help people install insulation measures. Its all part of the drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

There probably isn't a catch - we had our cavity wall done a few years ago for only £200 (it wasn't totally free as it was over the size that qualifies for free but it was heavily discounted).

I work in a local authority and we have received (Scottish) government funding in the past to run schemes in certain areas i.e postcode based, where we know there are probably unfilled cavities and/or fuel poverty. In the last scheme we did it was free to householders. In previous ones it was at a very discounted rate. I have heard of the Mark group and know they do this kind of stuff, although it wasn't them we used.

Schemes change all the time though, so if I were you I would ask them how they are managing to provide it for free ie where are they getting the funding from. Also check your paperwork and make sure it is not related to the "Green Deal" as this is a new scheme where you pay for costs back through you energy bills (don't meant to worry you it doesn't sound like this is what is but just check anyway)

The Energy Savings Trust has a good website with loads of info and you could phone them for advice

Hope I've helped, feel like I'm at work!

[sh77]

Read inline reviews. I wish that we had!! They fitted loft insulation and since then, the house has been full of mould. This has never happened before. They took no responsibility and were rude to deal with. Check very carefully how they have done the survey. Did they take pics, measurements, check ventilation? Please do your research carefully.

[sh77]

Sorry - online reviews.

[PigletJohn]

cancel it.

never use itinerant doorknockers or cold callers.

they get you to sign up because they can take advantage of a generous government subsidy if you qualify. Once they have your name and address as a customer, no-one else can get your allowance. So cancel it and ensure you get a written confirmation.

If you do want insulation (a very good idea) look for a reliable trustworthy supplier. most energy companies and some local authorities have a scheme. I got mine done by BG, because I trust them not to go bust or run off with my money leaving a worthless guarantee.

[PigletJohn]

try this

and this