Table of Contents
Getting a free boiler is thought to be too easy for many low-income households under the UK government grants. However, practically speaking, qualifying for the ECO4 boiler scheme is not a piece of cake. Only if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and all the documents checklist can set you in the comfort zone.
Here, you will learn ten pro tips that will ensure your 100% chances to get free boiler grants. All you need to do is make sure that you follow this guide by giving maximum attention to details. Skipping any part might jeopardise your chances. First, please give a glance at the free boiler scheme.
UK Free Boiler Scheme - A Snapshot
There are various boiler grants available in the UK. The top of them is Energy Company Obligation phase-four (ECO4 scheme) and Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). The former scheme has no limit for funding per boiler installation.
While the latter scheme has allocated up to £7,500 per boiler installation at any property. Both of these grants help low-income households replace 15-years old inefficient non-condensing boilers with an energy efficient model.
A new boiler usually costs from £800 to £4,000 in 2024-2025, depending on its power, size and capacity which can warm your whole home. Moreover, the installation cost ranges from £650 to £1500, based on boiler type and complexity of installation. Under the government-backed boiler grants, you can save between £1,450 to £5,500.
Even these cost-estimations do not cover grants for the whole central heating system including a boiler, radiators, TRVs, smart thermostats and pipework. It’s just the boiler installation. If your property EPC rating still needs further boost, you may be eligible for free home insulation under the Great British Insulation Scheme. So, we are talking about saving tens of thousands of pounds under the free grants for boilers.
How To Get Free Grants for Energy-Efficient Boilers?
Tip# 1: Check Your Eligibility Before Starting Application
Before deciding to apply for the government boiler scheme, first check if you or your household meet the eligibility criteria. You may qualify only if you or any of your family members can show any of the following benefit letter:
- Working Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Job Seeker Allowance
- Employment & Support Allowance
- Pension Saving Credit
- Pension Guarantee Credit
The scheme helps only those on low income. Make sure to confirm that you qualify before starting the process.
Note: Checking your eligibility is the most crucial step that 90% determines whether you are eligible or not. |
Tip# 2: Be Aware of the Boiler Grant Schemes’ Requirements
Familiarise yourself with available grant schemes including how much budget limits, coverage, and procedure do they require. For instance, the ECO4 scheme covers the full cost of a boiler or even radiators for every living room if no radiator exists before.
This grant aims to improve energy efficiency in properties having a low EPC rating (usually below D). Knowing the different options will help you apply for the right boiler scheme that exactly meets your property requirements. Each grant has different rules & procedures, so understanding them is key.
Tip# 3: Gather the Right Documents When Needed
You’ll need to provide documents to prove your eligibility. These may include:
- Proof of benefits
- Your annual income
- Proof of ownership or tenantship
- EPC rating certificate
- Your existing boiler make & model (Only non-condensing boilers are eligible for replacement)
Having everything ready speeds up the application process. Missing paperwork can delay or even stop your application from being approved.
Tips# 4: Get a Free Energy Assessment of Your Property at Earliest
Many grants require an energy assessment. This survey checks how energy-efficient your home is. The assessment will help decide if you need a new boiler. You can book one through an approved energy company. It’s a vital step in the grant process.
Tip# 5: Apply for the Grant through an Approved Installer
Choose an installer who is approved under the ECO4 scheme and is certified with TrustMark. Working with an approved installer increases your chances of getting the free grant for energy-efficient boilers. They know the rules and can guide you through the process. Non-approved installers can complicate your application or may sometimes ask for money.
Tip# 6: Apply Early for the Grants
Grants are often given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying too early before the deadline gives you a better chance of securing one. Waiting too long can result in missing out, especially if funds run out. Get started as soon as you can to avoid disappointment.
Tips# 7: Double-Check Your Application
Before submitting, check your application for any mistakes. Incorrect or incomplete applications can cause delays. Ensure all your details match your documents. This includes your name, address, and benefit information. Double-checking prevents unnecessary setbacks.
Tips# 8: Follow Up on Your Application
Once you’ve applied, stay in touch with your installer or grant provider. Follow-up ensures your application is being processed early. If there are any issues, you can address them quickly. It also shows your commitment to getting the grant.
Tip# 9: Take Advantage of Other Energy-Efficient Grants
In addition to boiler grants, you may qualify for other energy-efficiency schemes. These include insulation grants and heat pumps with free solar panels for green energy solutions. Applying for more than one grant can improve your chances of getting one, and boost your home’s energy efficiency. This helps lower energy bills and keeps your home warmer.
Tip# 10: When Your Grant is Approved, Be Attentive!
Once your boiler grant application is approved, this is the stage when you almost reach the apex of the mountain, but only one step behind. You should respond to your installer immediately when they contact you because some people still forget to respond at this last step. This is the last but the most important tip for those who want to get free boiler grants in the UK.
Conclusion
Getting a free boiler grant in 2024 – 2025 is a bit harder compared to the preceding year, but possible if you follow the above mentioned tips. Make sure to check your eligibility, gather the right documents at the right time to avoid delays, and apply early. Further limitations in eligibility and increase in restrictions may disqualify you for getting free grants for boilers in the future. With the right approach, you can improve your home’s heating system without paying a fortune.
Frequently Asked Questions
Only those homeowners or private tenants with low-incomes, and whose households claim any of the government benefits as mentioned above in the blog.
It usually takes less than a week, depending on your documents verification, reliability of the installer. A TrustMark-certified installer takes around 3-4 working days from your boiler grant application to a free installation under the grants.
No, a landlord cannot apply himself for the free boiler scheme. Instead, a private tenant can apply with the landlord’s permission if the property is not a commercial, council rented or social housing.
Most schemes like ECO4 cover the full cost, but some may require a small contribution from the homeowner or landlord/tenant if the installation cost exceeds the allocated amount.
Yes, you can apply for loft or cavity wall insulation grants or other energy-efficiency grants like air source heat pumps or first time central heating grants. Different grants applications have different requirements.
