The Glass and Glazing Federation has called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham's government to reduce the 20 per cent VAT rate applied to double glazing, arguing that the change would lower domestic energy bills and bring the product in line with other energy-saving measures.
Unlike heat pumps and certain insulation products, double glazing currently attracts the full standard rate of VAT. Chris Beedel, head of Government Advocacy at the Glass and Glazing Federation, said the sector feels overlooked and that homeowners should benefit from a VAT reduction that would be passed directly back to them.
Energy efficiency gap highlighted
Beedel explained that while low carbon heating systems are effective, the energy they produce is being lost through windows, doors, and uninsulated walls. He stressed that insulating a building without installing new windows and doors creates a weak point, as these become the areas of least resistance.
He said that if homeowners installed insulation and new windows and doors at the same time, a VAT cut would make a significant difference and make the products more attractive. Even a reduction to 10 per cent would be welcome, he added, as it would spark interest among homeowners and encourage them to consider insulation before or alongside installing a heat pump.
Industry calls for parity and support
Beedel argued that a VAT reduction would bring parity with insulation and other products, and would signal to the industry that the government values its work. He noted that the sector has not relied on government subsidies or loans but has continued independently, which he said has led to the government leaving it alone.
He said the industry has now reached a crossroads, with a depth of knowledge, understanding, and potential investment that could secure UK manufacturing for years to come. However, he pointed out that large volumes of glass are being imported from Turkey, China, and India, competing with UK-manufactured products, and there is little in place to adjust that imbalance. VAT relief, he said, would show that the government takes the industry seriously and wants to help it grow.
Builders back broader VAT reduction
Jeremy Gray, head of External Affairs for the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), also supported the call, saying that reducing VAT on all aspects of repair and maintenance work to homes would help stimulate the market and ensure tradespeople have a healthy pipeline of work.
Gray noted that some product installations, such as solar panels, already enjoy 0 per cent VAT, and expanding this to glazing would help bring down costs for homeowners on what is a common installation with any new renovation or extension. He described the change as a win-win, with more work for industry, less costly installations, and reduced energy bills for homeowners.
