The Delivery Assurance Check (DAC) Form is a critical compliance and readiness tool for local authorities and consortia seeking funding under the Warm Homes: Local Grant (WHLG) scheme. It acts as the final step before grant recipients can commence delivery of retrofit measures aimed at improving energy efficiency in homes.
What is the DAC Form?
The DAC Form is designed by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to ensure that projects funded under WHLG are fully prepared for implementation. It verifies that all necessary resources, procurement arrangements, fraud prevention measures, and delivery plans are in place. Successful completion of the DAC allows grant recipients to begin submitting batches of “ready-to-retrofit” homes and draw down funding.
Why is it Used for WHLG?
The DAC process safeguards public funds and ensures that WHLG projects meet high standards of governance, compliance, and operational readiness. It addresses key risks such as:
- Fraud and error prevention
- Procurement transparency
- Delivery capability
- Eligibility verification for households
By requiring detailed evidence and annexes, the DAC ensures that projects can deliver upgrades efficiently and in line with WHLG objectives—reducing fuel poverty and improving energy performance in vulnerable households.
Main Components of the DAC Form for WHLG
The form is structured into six sections, each focusing on a critical aspect of project readiness:
- Grant Recipient Details
Basic information about the lead local authority or consortium, including key contacts and governance authority. - Project Resourcing
Details on staffing levels, skills, and recruitment progress. Projects are generally expected to have at least two full-time equivalent staff (project manager and data/reporting officer). - Contractor Procurement
Evidence of completed and ongoing procurement activities, including contractor details, contract values, and compliance with PAS 2030/2035 standards. Consortia must also provide Annex E for members handling their own procurement. - Delivery Assurance & Fraud Risk Documentation
Submission of key annexes:- Annex A: Fraud Management Plan
- Annex B: Fraud Risk Assessment
- Annex C: Named Escalation Contacts
- Annex D: Evidence of commercial agreements
These documents demonstrate robust risk management and governance.
- Delivery Forecast
A month-by-month plan outlining expected sign-ups, retrofit assessments, installations, and expenditure. This sets the baseline for monitoring performance. - Income Eligibility Verification
Explanation of how household eligibility will be verified under WHLG’s three pathways:- Pathway 1: IMD Deciles 1–2 postcodes
- Pathway 2: Means-tested benefits or ECO Flex Route 2
- Pathway 3: Household income thresholds (£36,000 or less)
Key Annexes
- Annex A & B: Fraud prevention strategies
- Annex C: Escalation contacts for risk management
- Annex D: Proof of commercial arrangements
- Annex E: Procurement details for consortia members
Why It Matters when managing for WHLG
The DAC process underpins the success of WHLG by ensuring that every funded project is ready to deliver meaningful energy efficiency improvements. It promotes accountability, reduces risk, and accelerates the rollout of measures that help households stay warm and reduce energy bills.
