The ECO4 Scheme (Energy Company Obligation, Phase 4) is a UK government-backed initiative designed to help families stay warm while lowering the nation’s carbon footprint.

Unlike many programs that only offer small discounts, ECO4 is a “whole-house” retrofit scheme. This means instead of just fixing one drafty window, the goal is to transform your home’s energy efficiency from the ground up covering everything from high-grade insulation to advanced renewable heating.

While originally set to end sooner, the government has confirmed that ECO4 is now active until December 31, 2026. However, funding is allocated in waves by energy suppliers, so it is always better to apply early before local budgets are reached for the year.

To qualify for a 100% non-repayable grant, your household typically needs to meet three main criteria:

1. Property Ownership: You must be a homeowner or a private tenant (with your landlord’s permission).

2. Energy Rating: Your home must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G. The lower your rating, the more help you are likely to receive.

3. Income or Benefits: You generally need to be receiving a qualifying benefit (see the list below).

No Benefits? Don’t worry. If you are on a low income but don’t claim benefits, you may still qualify through LA Flex (Local Authority Flexibility). This allows local councils to recommend households that are vulnerable to fuel poverty.

The beauty of ECO4 is the variety of measures available. Depending on your home’s specific needs, you could receive:

If anyone in your household receives the following, you are likely eligible for immediate support:

• Universal Credit (UC)

• Housing Benefit (New for ECO4)

• Pension Credit (Guarantee & Savings Credit)

• Child Tax Credits (CTC) & Working Tax Credit (WTC)

• Income-related ESA or Income-based JSA

• Income Support (IS)

• Child Benefit (Income thresholds apply – see below)

Child Benefit Income Thresholds (2026)

One of the most common questions we get at ECO Heating Guide is about boiler replacements. Under ECO4, the rules are specific:

• Efficiency Matters: Your existing boiler typically needs to be non-condensing or have an efficiency rating of less than 84.6%.

• Age: Generally, boilers older than 20 years (installed before 2005) are the primary targets for replacement.

• The “Whole House” Approach: Unlike previous schemes, ECO4 rarely replaces just a boiler. It usually requires a “package” of improvements (like adding insulation) to ensure the new heating system operates at peak efficiency.

We’ve made it simple to move from a cold house to a cozy home in three easy steps:

• Step 1: The 2-Minute Check – Fill out our simple form to see if your property and benefits align with the current 2026 criteria.

• Step 2: The Home Survey – If you’re eligible, we arrange a professional, no-obligation survey to see exactly which upgrades will save you the most money.

• Step 3: Professional Installation – Our TrustMark registered installers complete the work. You pay nothing, and your energy bills start dropping immediately.

At ECO Heating Guide, we aren’t just installers; we are energy experts. With over a decade of experience navigating government schemes, we handle the complex paperwork so you don’t have to. We believe every home in the UK deserves to be warm, efficient, and affordable.

1. Is the ECO4 grant really 100% free?

Yes. For eligible households, the measures including parts and labor are fully funded by the UK’s largest energy suppliers. There are no hidden fees, and you don’t have to pay the money back. The goal of the scheme is to lower the nation’s carbon footprint by making the most inefficient homes easier to heat.

2. I’m not on benefits. Can I still qualify?

Absolutely. Many people don’t realize they can qualify via LA Flex (Local Authority Flexibility). If your total household income is under £31,000 per year or if someone in your home has a health condition made worse by the cold (like asthma or cardiovascular issues), we can apply through your local council on your behalf.

3. What if I already have an old boiler? Can I get a new one?

Under ECO4, the focus has shifted toward “fabric first” (insulation) and renewable heating. While free gas boiler replacements are now limited to very specific circumstances, we can often provide much more valuable upgrades, such as Air Source Heat Pumps or Solar Panels, which offer much greater long-term savings.

4. How long does the whole process take?

We know you want to start saving as soon as possible. Generally, it takes about 2 to 4 weeks from your initial application to complete the home survey and eligibility checks. Once approved, most installations (like insulation or heat pumps) are completed within 1–3 days.

5. Does the ECO4 scheme apply to tenants or landlords?

It applies to both!

• Tenants: You can apply if you receive qualifying benefits, provided your landlord gives permission.

• Landlords: If your tenant is eligible, you can get thousands of pounds worth of property upgrades for free, which increases your property value and EPC rating.

6. Will this affect my current benefits or credit score?

Not at all. This is a government-mandated grant, not a loan. It has no impact on your monthly benefit payments, and there are no credit checks involved in the application.

7. What is an EPC, and why does it matter?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) measures how efficient your home is from A (best) to G (worst). To qualify for ECO4, your home usually needs to be D, E, F, or G. If you don’t have an EPC or don’t know your rating, our team will help you find out during the initial check.

8. When does the ECO4 scheme end?

The current phase of the scheme is scheduled to run until December 31, 2026. However, because funding is distributed by energy suppliers in “pots,” it’s best to apply early in the year to ensure your local area still has budget available.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help you navigate the jargon. Our team at ECO Heating Guide prides itself on being transparent and supportive.