Boiler Grants in the UK: How to Apply for a Free or Subsidised Boiler

Boiler Grants in the UK: How to Apply for a Free or Subsidised Boiler

A properly working boiler is essential for maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home, especially during the UK’s cold months. However, the cost of replacing an old or broken boiler can be high—often running into the thousands. Fortunately, government-backed boiler grants are available in the UK to help eligible households replace inefficient or broken boilers at low or no cost.

What Are Boiler Grants?

Boiler grants are financial support options provided by the UK government or affiliated energy companies under schemes such as:

• The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme

• The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

These grants are aimed at helping low-income or vulnerable households improve energy efficiency by replacing old, inefficient boilers with modern A-rated ones.

Instead of receiving a cash payment, eligible households have the new boiler supplied and installed either completely free or at a significantly reduced cost, depending on the specific scheme and household circumstances.

Why Are These Grants Offered?

The primary goals behind these schemes are:

• Reducing energy consumption to meet the UK’s net-zero carbon targets

• Tackling fuel poverty, where families struggle to afford adequate heating

• Improving the energy efficiency of the UK’s housing stock

By replacing old boilers with newer models, homes become more energy-efficient, which lowers carbon emissions and cuts down on heating bills.

What Is the ECO4 Scheme?

The ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation Phase 4) is the most prominent boiler replacement grant scheme currently active in the UK. It runs from 2022 to 2026 and is funded by major energy suppliers. Under ECO4, eligible households can receive:

• Free or subsidised boiler replacements

• Insulation upgrades

• Heating controls

• First-time central heating (in some cases)

The scheme targets homes that have low energy performance ratings (EPC D, E, F, or G) and belong to households on qualifying benefits or low incomes.

Who Is Eligible for a Boiler Grant?

Eligibility for a boiler replacement grant depends on a few key factors:

1. Benefits-Based Eligibility

You may qualify if someone in your household receives one of the following means-tested benefits:

• Income Support

• Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit)

• Universal Credit

• Child Tax Credit

• Working Tax Credit

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

• Housing Benefit

Some schemes also consider disability benefits, but they may have stricter requirements.

2. Low-Income Households (LIS Route)

Even if you're not on benefits, some households may still qualify through the Low Income and Vulnerable Household route, especially if:

• Your combined household income is below a set threshold (varies by region)

• You have health conditions made worse by a cold home

• You have dependent children under a certain age

• You're in a Council Tax Band A-D (England) or A-E (Scotland and Wales)

3. Property Requirements

• Your current boiler must usually be over 8-10 years old or broken

• Your property should have a low EPC rating (typically D or below)

• The home must be privately owned or privately rented (with landlord consent)

• In some cases, first-time boiler installations may be considered

Social housing tenants may be eligible under separate schemes managed by housing associations.

What Types of Boilers Are Covered?

The grants typically cover the replacement of:

• Gas boilers that are non-condensing, old, or inefficient

• Electric storage heaters in off-gas homes (where applicable)

• Oil or LPG boilers in off-grid homes (under certain schemes)

The replacement is usually a new A-rated condensing boiler with improved energy efficiency, often combined with smart heating controls like thermostats or timers.

Boiler Grant Process: Step-by-Step Guide

If you think you might be eligible, here’s how the boiler grant application process typically works:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Visit a verified ECO scheme provider or use an online eligibility checker. You’ll need to provide:

• Your postcode

• Details of any benefits you receive

• Information about your current boiler and property type

Step 2: Arrange a Home Survey

If you meet the initial criteria, an approved surveyor will be scheduled to visit your home. During the survey, they will:

• Inspect your existing boiler system

• Assess the property’s insulation and EPC rating

• Check for any additional required upgrades (e.g., loft or wall insulation)

Step 3: Funding Approval

Once the survey is complete, the installer will submit your information to the funding body. If approved, you’ll be offered a full or partial grant, depending on the findings.

Step 4: Installation

A certified engineer will install your new boiler, usually within a few days to a few weeks. Most installations are completed in one day.

You may receive documentation regarding warranty, energy savings, and aftercare instructions.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Boiler grants are not guaranteed—they depend on your circumstances, the state of your current boiler, and available funding.

• If you’re renting, your landlord must give permission.

• Some providers may ask for a small contribution if full funding is not available.

• You may also be offered insulation upgrades alongside the boiler, which can be a condition of the grant.

Common Myths About Boiler Grants

Final Thoughts

Boiler grants can offer a significant financial and environmental benefit for eligible households in the UK. If your boiler is old, broken, or inefficient, checking your eligibility under the ECO4 or GBIS schemes could be well worth your time.

The application process is usually straightforward, and in many cases, you could receive a new boiler at little or no cost—all while reducing your energy bills and improving your home’s warmth.

By understanding how these schemes work, who qualifies, and how to apply, you’re better equipped to make a decision that benefits your home, your wallet, and the planet.