FAQs

Below are the most frequently asked questions from residents who have had retrofit works completed on their homes.

Do I have to have all proposed measures of work?

Yes, all measures of work identified are needed to improve your home in line with the energy efficiency requirements.

Do I need to contact my electricity provider to let them know I have had PV solar panels installed?

Yes, when you receive your MSC certification, you will need to contact them with this information.

Why do we need to so many surveys prior to the works starting?

This is due to the multiple measures of work required to complete the SHDF programme and enabling works required. Each individual measure must have its own dedicated survey.

This ensures that all works can be carefully planned and delivered efficiently and without delay.

I have belongings stored in my loft space, will I need to remove these?

This will depend on your homes identified measures of works. Our resident liaison officer will inform you prior to works if this is required. United Living can assist with temporarily removing belongings and putting these back upon completion.

I’ve had solar panels installed but I haven’t noticed any savings in my electric bills.

Where possible, try to use appliances during the day when the PV is generating power, as opposed to the evening or overnight. Solar PV panels will typically generate the most power during the middle of the day. If not done so already, consider getting a smart meter which could help track your energy usage and real time savings.

Will my SNG rent increase once the retrofit works are complete?

There will be no rent increases directly due to retrofit works carried out in your home.

Are SNG benefiting from the PV solar panels, will they be receiving revenue or payback from the grid?

No, SNG have no commercial benefits from the PV panels, any unused electricity generated will go back to the grid.

To get the most from your new energy efficiency measures, we encourage you to apply for the ‘Smart Export Guarantee’, which pays you back for the unused energy generated by your solar panels.

What is the Smart Export Guarantee?

The Smart Export Guarantee is a UK government-backed initiative that allows households to earn money by exporting energy produced by your solar panels that is not used in the home back to the grid.

See the link for more information: Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) | Ofgem

Can I claim the Smart Export Guarantee on my Solar Panels?

Yes absolutely, SNG and UL encourage you to apply for the Smart Export Guarantee. To do this you will need to reach out to your energy provider. They will ask you for a cover letter from your landlord authorising your application and you will need to supply your install certificates. Please reach out to us via the ‘contact us’ button and we will send you everything you need.