Not all homes qualify for air source heat pump grants. So if you are considering a heat pump and wondering if your home qualifies to receive a grant to have one installed from the government? You're in the right place.
Here, we’ll discuss which properties are eligible for a heat pump grant under the ECO4 scheme and what your property must possess to qualify.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump Grant?
The heat pump grant is a component of the UK government-backed ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation). It contributes towards low-income households making their homes more energy efficient and includes providing free air source heat pumps.
An air source heat pump heats water and your house using air from the outside. It is more economical to operate than traditional boilers and also good for the planet. Installation does come with a price tag, however, that can cost you between £10,000 and £14,000.
That's why the government grant is available to pay for it for households who qualify.
What Makes a Property Eligible?
It’s not solely about the residents of the house. It’s also about the house itself. This is what your property requires:
1. Low Energy Efficiency (EPC Rating)
Your property will have to have a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, typically E, F, or G. These ratings also indicate how energy efficient a property is and what updates it needs to improve its efficiency.
2. Off-Gas Grid or Inefficient Heating System
You're more likely to qualify if your property is not on mains gas or has an outdated, less efficient heating system, like:
- Electric Storage Heaters
- Coal fires
- LPG or oil boilers
If you still have outdated heating like this, a heat pump can be a huge improvement.
3. Owner-Occupied or Privately Rented Homes
Both private tenants and homeowners are eligible to apply. Landlords will have to consent if the property is rented. Council and housing association homes might not qualify for ECO4 unless additional financing is utilised.
What Types of Properties Qualify?
The ECO4 scheme is intended to benefit different types of UK properties. Assuming that the other eligibility requirements are met on your property, including a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating and income thresholds, the following types of properties are usually eligible:
- Detached Houses
- Detached Bungalows
- Semi-Detached Houses
- Semi-Detached Bungalows
- End-Terraced Houses
- End-Terraced Bungalows
- Mid-Terraced Houses
- Mid-Terraced Bungalows
- Flats (including top-floor and ground-floor units)
- Maisonettes
What Else Do You Need to Qualify?
It is not just about the property. Someone living in the home must meet certain income or benefit criteria.
Here is how it works:
You’re on Certain Government Benefits
If someone in your household claims one or more of these, you could be eligible:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
Will You Need to Insulate Your Home First?
Yes. The ECO4 scheme follows a “whole-house” approach. That means:
- Your home must be insulated first
- Then, renewable tech like a heat pump can be installed
The grant covers:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Internal wall insulation
So even if your property is cold and draughty now, you could get it fully upgraded at no cost.
What Happens During the Survey?
Before you are approved, a surveyor will come to check:
- Your existing heating system
- Energy efficiency (EPC rating)
- Space for the heat pump unit
- Insulation levels
Eligibility for Other Upgrades
This costs nothing. They'll make a proposal if yours meets their qualifications and start the process of installing it.
So, Does Your Property Qualify for a Heat Pump?
Not all houses are capable of having a heat pump. Your property will have to fulfill some requisites. Check the following before applying:
1. Is Your Home Off the Gas Grid?
If you have a gas boiler and are on the gas grid, you might not be the first to qualify. The ECO4 scheme targets homes which:
- Are off the gas grid
- Use oil heaters or electric heaters
- Have high utility bills
This is so because off-the-grid residences gain the most by making the transition.
2. Do You Have Outside Space for the Unit?
Air source heat pumps require space outside to operate. They draw air in from the outdoors and utilise it to warm up your building.
To mount it, you will require:
- A yard, driveway, or garden with sufficient area to accommodate the outdoor unit
- A location not covered by walls or fences
- Someplace safe, but not too near to neighbours (to comply with noise regulations)
If you are in a flat or do not have any outside space, a heat pump may not be feasible.
3. Is Your Home Well Insulated?
Heat pumps perform optimally in buildings that retain heat. In case a building loses heat rapidly, the pump will also work harder. Consequently, it results in higher utility bills and low performance.
Before installing a heat pump, your residence might need:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation or solid wall insulation
- Double glazing in windows
- Proper draught
Under the ECO4 scheme, insulation is included completely free under the grant. Therefore, if you do not have it already, do not worry because you will still qualify.
4. What's Your EPC Rating?
Your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating indicates how efficient your house is. The rating goes from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
For ECO4 purposes, your property typically has to have an EPC rating of E, F, or G. These are the properties in most urgent need. Once work has been undertaken, the goal is to bring the rating up to C or a D.
Houses under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme should already be to a certain standard, such as having insulation.
The Bottom Line
If you have a cold home, a high heating bill, or an outdated boiler, you may qualify to receive a free heat pump and insulation upgrade as part of the ECO4 scheme.
You don’t have to do it all yourself. Companies like Grant Boilers are here to check your eligibility, facilitate the process, and organise the whole deal from start to finish. There is nothing to pay to check.
So, does your property qualify for a heat pump grant?
The best way to know is by doing—begin your complimentary evaluation today.
Is Your Property Eligible for a Heat Pump Grant?