What it offers
Insulation and heating upgrades
Guide
ECO4 scheme
Free or heavily funded home energy upgrades for eligible households.
Time sensitive: current ECO4 end date is December 2026
At a glance
ECO4 basics
Who it targets
Low income and inefficient homes
Deadline pressure
Current scheme ends Dec 2026
Act early
Why timing matters in 2026
Installers often have waiting lists and assessments take time. Starting early gives you the best chance of completing work before the current scheme window closes in December 2026.
Eligibility
Who is likely to qualify
Eligibility usually combines household income or benefit status with property efficiency. Homes with lower EPC ratings often have stronger eligibility routes.
Tenure matters too. Homeowners and tenants can both be eligible, but private and social tenants usually need landlord approval before works begin.
How to apply
Practical application steps
1. Gather evidence
Prepare proof of benefits or income and recent energy bill details before your assessment.
2. Arrange assessment
An installer or scheme partner reviews your property and proposes eligible measures.
3. Confirm scope
Check what is funded, what is optional, and who handles aftercare before signing.
FAQ
ECO4 questions
What does ECO4 pay for?
ECO4 can fund insulation, heating upgrades, and other efficiency improvements for eligible homes.
Do I need to repay ECO4 funding?
Most ECO4 measures are grant funded, but installation terms vary by provider. Always read paperwork before work starts.
Can tenants apply for ECO4?
Yes, many tenants can qualify, but landlord permission is usually required before installation work.
When does ECO4 end?
Current scheme timelines indicate ECO4 ends in December 2026.
Key terms explained
- EPC rating: Energy Performance Certificate rating from A to G showing how efficient your property is.
- PAS 2035: A quality framework used for retrofit projects to ensure energy upgrades are designed and installed safely.
Check the other support you may be entitled to
Use the support finder to see which schemes may apply to your household, then read the relevant guides for application steps.
Use the support finderWhile you are reviewing your energy costs, it may also be worth checking whether a cheaper tariff is available at your postcode. Compare at Utility Matchmaker →