TrustMark has published a consultation on the TrustMark Licence Plus (TMLP) for the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) and on the strengthening of financial protection within the scheme. The consultation seeks views on an alternative standard for loft insulation when installed as a standalone measure or paired with heating controls (HCs) under GBIS.

The consultation will close at 23:59pm on 12th December 2024.

Background

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is considering introducing an alternative standard to PAS 2035/PAS 2030 to enable cost-proportionate compliance for delivering loft insulation (when installed as a single measure) and heating controls (when paired with loft insulation) under GBIS.

The alternative standard considered is a version of the TrustMark Licence Plus (TMLP), originally launched in the Autumn of 2022, with further developed principles for GBIS via an industry Working Group.

It is important to note that while the TrustMark consultation includes the proposed design and details of the alternative standard, the decision on whether the standard should be adopted is a matter for DESNZ.

The recently published government consultation on ECO4 and GBIS invites views on whether this adapted version of TMLP, deemed suitable for GBIS, should be introduced. You can view the summary of this consultation via the following link: Government Consultation on ECO4 and GBIS: Proposed Mid-Scheme Changes and Pay-For-Performance Mechanism.

What does the consultation cover:

The consultation outlines the proposed design of TMLP for GBIS and includes the following key elements:

Retrofit Assessment:

Every property will require a PAS 2035 compliant Retrofit Assessment to verify that it falls within the scope of TMLP for GBIS. Only properties eligible under TMLP for GBIS criteria can be installed under this process. Properties outside the scope of the scheme, such as high-rise buildings and heritage properties, will continue to follow the existing PAS 2035 process.

Location Specific Design:

A bespoke installation design for the property will be required under TMLP for GBIS. This design can be completed by the installer, product supplier, or a third party, with clear accountability for the design established.

Pre-Installation Building Inspection, Post Completion Evidence, and Independent Monitoring

The consultation proposes incorporating the PAS 2030 principle of Pre-Installation Building Inspections (PIBI) and independent monitoring to ensure properties are suitable for the proposed measures and that the planned work is feasible under TMLP for GBIS.

Installation, Post Installation Checks and Testing

A registered TrustMark installer must validate the design and document the installation process before work begins. Installations must comply with all regulations and best practices. At the end of the process, a Retrofit Assessor must complete an Energy Performance Report.

Competence

All individuals involved in delivering TMLP for GBIS must demonstrate competence for their specific roles.

Lodgement 

Lodgement to TrustMark will be mandatory via the TrustMark registered installing business and will be modelled on existing processes and within the TrustMark Framework.

Assurance Activities 

TrustMark will implement risk-based assurance for TMLP lodgements and installations under GBIS, adhering to current delivery practices. Independent assessment of PIBIs will be introduced to ensure consistent compliance with PAS 2030 standards. TrustMark is working with independent organisations to assess property suitability and adherence to TMLP for GBIS requirements.

Further Resources

Elmhurst will review the consultation in more detail and publish a draft response shortly.

Elmhurst encourages all members, as well as other industry professionals, to review the consultation and share their feedback.

To read the full consultation and have your say, please visit: https://www.trustmark.org.uk/pages/licence-plus-consultation

The consultation closes at 23:59pm on 12th December 2024.