In a time when energy bills are rising, getting access to government grants like New Boiler Grants under the ECO4 scheme could be a lifeline for many low-income households. Since the scheme started back in 2013, nearly 9% of British households have improved their energy efficiency, thus saving a total of over £19 billion during the lifetime of the upgrades.

If you come from a low-income family in England and have an inefficient boiler, this could be your chance to apply for a new boiler grant to save you hundreds on heating bills. Still, applying for these grants is a careful process. Avoid the common mistakes in this article, and you could soon enjoy a warmer, more energy-efficient home.

What Are New Boiler Grants in England?

New Boiler Grants form part of the UK government’s ECO4 scheme, which was designed to improve energy efficiency and, at the same time, reduce carbon emissions. These grants provide an opportunity to replace old, inefficient boilers with new energy-efficient systems at no charge for households on low income.

Funded by the energy companies, the scheme aims to combat fuel poverty and install free boiler upgrades on those who qualify. With a £4 billion budget allocated until next March 2026, ECO4 covers not only the boiler itself but its installation, too. Eligible households might receive up to £10,000 in support to enable them to cut their energy bills and carbon footprint.

Can You Apply for a New Boiler Grant in England?

You must be eligible and meet certain criteria to qualify for an ECO4 New Boiler Grant. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Only homeowners and private tenants qualify.
• Your household income must be less than £31,000 annually.
• Your current boiler should be over 15 years old (or installed before 2005).
• Installation of gas meters before April 2022.
• Your property has to have an EPC rating of E, F, or G.
• You must be receiving certain qualifying government benefits.

Qualifying Government Benefits

You must be receiving at least one of the following benefits:

• Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support Allowance (ISA)
• Working Tax Credit (WTC)
• Child Tax Credit (CTC)
• Universal Credit (UC)
• Pension Guarantee Credit
• Pension Savings Credit

How to Apply for a New Boiler Grant in England

It is an easy process to apply for a new boiler grant in England if you do everything correctly. Here is how you will be able to make the application process smooth:

• Verify Your Eligibility

Most schemes have certain criteria to meet before applying, including specified income and property limits. Some online eligibility checkers can easily determine whether you qualify or not—ours takes just 60 seconds.

• Gather the Required Documents

You must have all the necessary documents available. This will include anything from proof of income or benefits to details about their property and any already existing energy assessments. Proper documentation will ensure that it doesn’t get caught in delays.

• Contact an Approved ECO4 Grant Provider

You can apply directly to an approved ECO4 grant supplier or your local council for funding. They may also provide an energy assessment of your home, which can recommend improvements.

• Submit Your Application

Once all your documentation is ready, submit the application. Double-check for completeness to prevent delays or rejections.

• Arrange a Home Survey

An accredited engineer will conduct a home survey if the application is successful. The survey will be conducted to confirm which energy-saving measures are needed.

• Enjoy Your A-Rated Boiler Installation

The Gas Safe engineers will then install your new energy-efficient boiler in your house. They ensure that it meets the highest standards for safety and efficiency.

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for Free Boiler Grants

Here are the seven most common mistakes that most people in England make, leading to a delayed application process and even, in severe cases, application rejection. So, you must avoid these common mistakes while applying for the free boiler grants in England, which would ensure a smooth application process:

• Submission of Incomplete Applications

Most of the delays or rejections are usually based on the non-availability of certain documents required during the process, such as proof of income or home ownership.

• Incorrect Boiler Information

The scheme applies to boilers older than 2005 and of the non-condensing type. If your boiler happens to be newer and condensing, your application is most probably going to be rejected; hence, you need to check its age.

• Misunderstanding of Eligibility Requirements

Some applicants wrongly perceive themselves as qualifying, not having met either the income or benefit criteria. Ensure that your application does not miss on any condition to avoid disappointment.

• Skipping Energy Assessments

First, it is very important to conduct an energy assessment. That shows what needs improvement in your home. Not conducting or poorly preparing this assessment will negatively affect your application. Make sure your energy assessment is thorough and as accurate as possible.

• Overlooking Specific Document Requirements

Different schemes may have different document needs, like income verifications or energy performance certificates. Take the time to find out what is required and make sure all such documentation is provided to prevent delay.

• Failure to Attend Home Surveys

If the surveyor does not visit, your installation date may be further delayed. Make sure you are available when an assessment is scheduled to take place.

• Not Meeting Deadlines

Most people don’t keep the deadline in mind before applying and miss the deadline. Once you have missed the deadline, you cannot get a grant for which you are eligible. The ECO4 Scheme runs until 31st March 2026. So, please keep track of deadlines to ensure your application is submitted on time.

Tips to Successfully Apply for New Boiler Grants

You can apply for the new boiler grants with the following guiding tips:

• Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Criteria

You need to make sure you meet all the eligibility conditions before applying. This may include household income limits, a specific type of property, and existing boiler efficiency. Failure to satisfy these will almost certainly result in your application being refused. We thus encourage you to take a few moments to carefully recheck the eligibility criteria.

• Gather All the Required Documentation in Advance

You must prepare all the necessary documentation, such as proof of benefits, details of income, ownership of property or tenancy agreements, and Energy Performance Certificates. This will indeed make the process much easier.

• Get Your EPC Rating if You Don’t Already Have

The homes that have an EPC rating of E, F, or G are eligible. Applicants must get an EPC certificate before applying if they have not already done so.

• Consult an Approved Grant Provider

For help and guidance, contact either an approved ECO4 grant provider or your local council. They will guide you through the whole process and help you avoid common mistakes.

• Fill Out the Application Form Carefully

Take your time when filling out the application for your grant. Double-check the paperwork for oversights and omissions, as such errors can delay or even deny applications.

• Submit Your Application on Time

Note the deadlines to submit your application. Submitting early gives you a wider window of opportunity to have your application reviewed and processed on time.

• Keep a Copy of Your Application

You must make sure to keep a copy of your completed application form and the documents attached. This will be helpful to you in case you seek an explanation or wish to follow up on information.

• Follow up on the Application

After submitting your application, follow up with the grant provider to ensure it has been received and is being processed. This proactive step can help address any issues early on.

• Be Prepared for a Home Survey

You will have a home survey if your application is approved. So, be prepared for this, and make sure that your home is as accessible to the surveyor as possible. This will help the surveyor to carry out the assessment smoothly.

The Bottom Line

A new boiler grant under the ECO4 scheme will save you huge on your energy bills and give you a warmer and more efficient house. Apply to ensure a seamless process from application to installation by avoiding common mistakes expected in each step. With the right preparation, you could soon enjoy a warmer home with a brand-new energy-efficient boiler—at no hassle and no cost to you.