How to Apply for ECO4 Support for Home Improvements

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme is a UK government-backed initiative aimed at helping households reduce energy bills while improving energy efficiency. Running from 2022 to 2026, ECO4 is the fourth phase of the broader ECO programme. It targets low-income and vulnerable households, offering them vital assistance to upgrade home insulation, install more efficient heating systems, and improve overall energy usage. If you are a homeowner or tenant struggling with high energy bills or living in a poorly insulated home, this support may be for you.

In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to apply for ECO4 support, who is eligible, what kind of improvements are covered, and how to get started. By the end, you’ll know how to begin your application and potentially secure government-backed funding to make your home warmer and more energy-efficient.

Understanding the ECO4 Scheme

ECO4 is a continuation of the UK’s efforts to meet climate goals and reduce household fuel poverty. Funded by energy suppliers, the scheme obligates them to support households in making energy-saving improvements. Unlike its previous phases, ECO4 is more focused on whole-house retrofitting, meaning homes will receive a range of measures rather than just a single fix like loft insulation or boiler upgrades.

The primary goals of ECO4 are:

• To reduce energy consumption in homes

• To lower carbon emissions

• To support vulnerable or low-income households

• To ensure long-term energy efficiency improvements

Who is Eligible for ECO4?

Eligibility under ECO4 is mainly income-based and focuses on helping people who receive certain government benefits or live in fuel poverty. However, ECO4 has broadened its criteria compared to earlier phases.

You may qualify for ECO4 if:

• You receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, or Housing Benefit

• Your household income is below a certain threshold

• Your home has a poor Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, generally E, F or G

• You are a homeowner or a private tenant with landlord consent

Landlords can also benefit, provided the tenant meets the criteria and the property qualifies for energy upgrades.

What Types of Home Improvements Are Covered?

ECO4 covers a range of energy efficiency measures aimed at reducing heat loss and improving your home’s overall sustainability. These include:

• Insulation: Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation (internal or external), underfloor insulation

• Heating upgrades: Replacement of inefficient electric heating, first-time central heating installations, boiler replacements (in certain cases)

• Ventilation improvements: To complement insulation and reduce dampness or mould

• Solar panels and smart heating controls: In some cases, renewable options are included where suitable

Each property is assessed individually to determine what combination of improvements will result in the best efficiency gains.

Steps to Apply for ECO4 Support

Applying for ECO4 is relatively straightforward but does require a few steps to ensure that you qualify and receive the appropriate assistance. Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, you need to confirm whether you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes:

• Checking if your household income falls below the scheme’s threshold

• Confirming that you or someone in your household receives one of the qualifying benefits

• Ensuring your property has a poor EPC rating

There are also "flexible eligibility" routes through your local authority, known as LA Flex, which can consider non-benefit-based cases under local schemes.

Step 2: Contact a Registered ECO Installer or Scheme Provider

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, your next step is to contact an ECO4-approved installer or scheme partner. These professionals are authorized to assess your home and submit your application on your behalf. They’ll typically:

• Carry out a home energy assessment (free of charge under the scheme)

• Recommend a package of suitable energy efficiency improvements

• Help you with the paperwork and approval process

Ensure that the provider you work with is certified and recognised by Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets), which regulates the ECO scheme.

Step 3: Get Your Home Surveyed

A home energy assessment is necessary to determine your property’s current energy performance. An accredited surveyor will visit your home to:

• Evaluate insulation levels

• Assess the heating system

• Look for signs of heat loss or poor ventilation

• Produce or update your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

This survey helps design a plan that delivers the most value in terms of energy savings and comfort improvements.

Step 4: Approval and Installation

If your application is approved, the installer will schedule a time to begin the home improvements. The timeline and measures will vary depending on your specific property and the work required. Most installations are free of charge to qualifying households. In some cases, there might be a small contribution required, especially in properties needing extensive upgrades, but this is rare.

Step 5: Post-Installation Support and Verification

After the upgrades are completed, your installer may conduct another survey to verify improvements and check performance. Some homes will also undergo independent inspections for quality assurance.

You’ll receive documentation confirming what work has been carried out, how it impacts your energy rating, and any warranties associated with the installations.

Benefits of Applying for ECO4

Applying for ECO4 support brings multiple long-term advantages:

• Reduced energy bills: Improved insulation and efficient heating cut down on energy usage

• Better indoor comfort: Your home will stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer

• Increased property value: Energy-efficient homes often have higher resale value

• Healthier living environment: Improved ventilation and reduced damp/mould contribute to better respiratory health

• Environmental impact: By lowering your carbon footprint, you’re contributing to the UK’s net-zero targets

For those on a limited income, these changes can significantly improve quality of life without financial burden.

Common Questions About ECO4

Can tenants apply for ECO4?
Yes, tenants can apply, but they must have permission from their landlord for work to be done on the property.

Is ECO4 available in all areas?
The scheme is nationwide, but specific measures and funding availability can vary depending on your local authority and property type.

How long does the process take?
From initial assessment to completed installation, the process can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on scheduling and the complexity of improvements.

Is it really free?
Yes, in most cases the improvements under ECO4 are fully funded. However, certain households might be asked to contribute a small percentage if their property requires more extensive work.

Conclusion: A Smart Move for a Greener, More Comfortable Home

Applying for ECO4 support can be a game-changer for households struggling with high energy bills and cold, inefficient homes. With a clear process in place and professional support available at each step, there’s no reason to delay. From initial eligibility checks to completed installations, the scheme is designed to be accessible and impactful.

For thousands of UK residents, ECO4 is already delivering warmer homes, reduced energy costs, and a better quality of life. If you think you might qualify, take the first step today by checking your eligibility and reaching out to a certified installer. It’s an opportunity to future-proof your home while helping the environment—and it costs you nothing to start.

If you're looking to improve your home through insulation or heating upgrades,  ec04 grants  can make it affordable, or even completely free. Take advantage of this government-backed initiative and transform your home into an energy-efficient space without the financial stress.