ECO4 Scheme 2024: Ultimate Guide to Free Boilers & Insulation

Introduction

The UK government’s ECO4 scheme is offering £4 billion in funding until March 2026 to help households upgrade their heating and insulation—completely free. But with complex eligibility rules and tight deadlines, many are missing out.

This guide cuts through the confusion, revealing:
✅ Exactly what’s covered (boilers, insulation, renewables)
✅ Who qualifies (benefit recipients AND low-income households)
✅ How to claim before funding runs out

What is the ECO4 Scheme?

ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) requires major UK energy suppliers (British Gas, EON, etc.) to fund energy-saving upgrades for vulnerable homes.

Key Changes in 2024:

🔹 Heat pump focus – 90,000 installations targeted
🔹 Stricter EPC rules – Must improve homes by 2+ bands (e.g., E → C)
🔹 New “ECO4 Flex” pathways – For households earning under £31k

*”Last year, ECO4 helped 150,000 homes save £580/year on bills.”*

What’s Covered Under ECO4?

Who Qualifies? (Two Pathways)

1. Automatic Qualification (Benefits)

If you receive:
✔ Universal Credit
✔ Pension Credit
✔ Child Tax Credits (income <£19k single/<£27k couple)

👉 No income checks – approval in 24 hours

2. ECO4 Flex (No Benefits Needed)

For households:
✔ Earning under £31k
✔ With health issues (asthma, arthritis)
✔ In Council Tax bands A-D

Pro Tip: “Liverpool Council fast-tracks homes with mould issues.”

How to Apply (4 Simple Steps)

1. Online Check – 60-second eligibility test
2. Home Survey – Free EPC assessment
3. Council Approval – We handle paperwork
4. Installation – As quick as 2 weeks

⚠️ Warning: Delays expected near 2026 deadline

5 ECO4 Myths Busted

❌ “It’s a loan” → 100% free (funded by energy firms)
❌ “Only homeowners qualify” → Renters can apply with landlord consent
❌ “New boilers aren’t covered” → Only if replacing inefficient models

Conclusion: Act Now Before Funding Ends

With only 18 months left, ECO4 grants are being claimed fast.

🔵 [Check Eligibility Now] (Takes 60 seconds)