Published: 20/02/2026
If you have been thinking about upgrading the outside of your property, now is the time to act. The UK Government’s current VAT relief on the installation of energy-saving materials (including qualifying insulation works) runs until 31 March 2027. From 1 April 2027, the VAT rate is set to revert to 5%.
Government guidance reference (HMRC Notice 708/6): VAT on energy-saving materials and heating equipment
What this means for homeowners
- Potential VAT saving now (eligible insulation works): 0% VAT during the relief period (up to 31 March 2027).
- After the change: installations revert to 5% VAT from 1 April 2027.
- Practical reality: as we approach the deadline, demand normally increases and reputable installers can become fully booked months in advance.
If you want to benefit from the current VAT relief window (where applicable), the best approach is simple: book early, secure your slot, and plan your works well ahead of the deadline.
Why external wall insulation is one of the best upgrades you can make
External Wall Insulation (EWI) improves a home’s thermal performance by fixing insulation externally and applying a reinforced render system over the top. It is particularly beneficial for solid wall properties and homes with poor thermal efficiency.
- Warmer home and improved comfort
- Lower heat loss and potentially reduced energy bills
- Reduced risk of cold-spot condensation issues
- A complete external facelift with modern render finishes
Learn more about our External Wall Insulation service: www.macarendering.co.uk/external-wall-insulation
Finish options: Silicone Render or Lime Render (your choice)
Option A: Silicone render (modern, low maintenance)
Silicone render is designed to be breathable, flexible and weather-resistant, with a wide colour range. It is typically self-coloured, meaning it generally does not require painting afterwards in the way traditional paint-finish systems often do.
Silicone Render page: www.macarendering.co.uk/silicone-render
Option B: Lime render (traditional and highly breathable)
Lime render is often chosen for older and heritage-style buildings where vapour permeability and traditional construction compatibility are priorities. If you are unsure what your wall needs, we will assess the substrate and recommend the most appropriate system.
System transparency: download spec sheets (Wetherby + EWI Store)
We believe customers should be able to review the technical information behind the systems being installed. Below are reliable resources you can use to read more and download relevant technical documents.
Wetherby (system references, certification and typical details)
- Example Wetherby system page (technical downloads): https://www.wall-systems.co.uk/masonry-enhanced-eps-dash-system/
- Example BBA certificate document (PDF): https://wall-systems.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/BBA-Certificate-09-4625-PS2-Epsiwall-External-Wall-Insulation-System-Phenolic-Enhanced-EPS-with-Heck-Silicone-Render.pdf
- Example EWI detail drawings set (PDF): https://www.wall-systems.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/SFS-EPSITEC-EWI-SILICONE-2020-RAGRAIL-Set-LR.pdf
EWI Store (product data sheets)
- Silicone render product data sheet (PDF): https://ewistore.co.uk/Products/393482/Product%20Data%20Sheet/ewi075-1.pdf
- EPS basecoat adhesive product page (example component data): https://ewistore.co.uk/shop/external-wall-insulation/eps-basecoat-adhesive-ewi-220-25kg/
Free quote, free survey, free technical visit
To make it easy to plan ahead, all quotations, consultations, assessments and technician site visits are free of charge. We will inspect the existing finish, check detailing requirements, and recommend the most suitable approach—whether you choose insulation plus render, or a render-only upgrade.
Contact us to arrange your free assessment: www.macarendering.co.uk/contact
Call to action: reserve your slot early
If you want to lock in the current VAT relief period (where applicable) and avoid the rush as we approach April 2027, we recommend booking now. As demand increases closer to the deadline, available start dates may reduce quickly.
Call: 0114 400 0129
Email: info@macarendering.co.uk
Quick form: www.macarendering.co.uk/contact
VAT eligibility depends on property type, scope of works and the applicable VAT rules at the time. We will always explain the VAT position clearly as part of your quotation, with reference to HMRC guidance.
