Introducing the Fraud, Error and Non-compliance (FENC) programme

Many grant Recipients are already benefiting from engagement with the FENC programme, initially through the Assurance Reviews. By the end of November 2025, RISE had completed deep-dive checks with 20 grant recipients, focusing on eligibility controls. These reviews will continue as part of our ongoing assurance work.

Other elements of the programme that will go live over the next few months include Desktop Reviews & Inspections (where around 5% of properties will undergo desktop checks and site inspections) and A&A Expenditure Checks (where again, approximately 5% of administration and ancillary spend will be reviewed for compliance).

Insights from the FENC programme activity to date; Installer Phoenixing

We're seeing an emerging risk around "installer phoenixing" – where installers close down and reopen under new names, leaving unpaid liabilities behind. This can put grant funds at risk, so here are a few practical steps that might help:

• Consider holding back final payments until works have passed defect periods and quality checks
• Check supplier history on Companies House – trading for less than 3 years can sometimes be a flag
• Review directors' history for dissolved entities or disqualifications

The Main FENC risks being identified

The most common risks across the programme are:

• Non-compliant or out-of-scope installations
• Missing or inadequate accreditation
• Overcharging or inflated costs
• Resident misrepresentation in Local Grant applications
• Cyber breaches that could enable fraud