Meeting on TrustMark Suspension and Its Impact
A recent meeting held in London City, brought together installers affected by the TrustMark suspension announced in response to widespread poor quality solid wall insulation under the ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme. This discussion aimed to address the consequences of these suspensions, including their wider impact on job security and the reputation of the retrofitting industry.
Key Discussion Points
The installers, many of whom have been suspended, shared their concerns regarding the competency and oversight of TrustMark as a regulatory body. They highlighted systemic failures in monitoring and certifying installations, which they believe have contributed to the current crisis. Concerns were also raised about the lack of support for installers facing financial and reputational losses due to these issues.
The group discussed the following key areas:
- The need for clearer and more consistent guidelines from regulatory bodies.
- The impact of the suspensions on employees and subcontractors within the affected businesses.
- How these regulatory failures risk undermining public trust in retrofitting schemes designed to improve energy efficiency.
Background
This meeting followed the government’s announcement that 39 businesses were immediately suspended from installing solid wall insulation due to substandard work identified by routine checks. The government has mandated that all poor quality installations must be repaired at no cost to households, with installers bearing full responsibility for remediation.
The government has acknowledged long-standing issues with the regulatory system, describing it as fragmented and confusing for consumers. Ministers have committed to reforms under the Warm Homes Plan, aiming to improve oversight, accountability, and consumer protections in energy efficiency schemes.
Response from Installers
Installers at the meeting emphasised their commitment to high standards and quality work, expressing frustration at being penalised for what they perceive as systemic issues beyond their control. Many called for greater collaboration between the government, TrustMark, and industry representatives to address these challenges and ensure fair treatment for all parties involved.
Next Steps
The installers have proposed the following actions:
- Engaging with TrustMark and government bodies to seek transparency and fairness in the suspension process.
- Advocating for a review of the oversight mechanisms that led to these widespread issues.
- Establishing a unified voice to represent affected installers and protect the future of the retrofitting industry.
