All calculators
Home Grants & Energy2 min check

ECO Scheme Eligibility Checker

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) helps lower-income households improve home energy efficiency. Answer a few questions for an indicative view.

Short answer

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) runs to March 2026 and forces big energy suppliers to fund efficiency upgrades — insulation, heating controls, replacement boilers and first-time central heating — for low-income and vulnerable households. Eligibility is based on benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, ESA, JSA, Income Support, Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, Child Benefit + income cap) plus a low EPC band (D–G). The LA Flex route lets councils refer households not on benefits but with low income or health needs.
Step 1 of 20%

Your home

How it works

An installer (or scheme manager) checks your benefits and EPC, models your home, picks the upgrades that hit the required energy-saving target, and submits the project to a funder (usually British Gas, EDF, Octopus, OVO, ScottishPower or E.ON). You don't choose the funder — the installer does. ECO4 must take a band F/G home up to band D, and a band D/E up to band C, where reasonable.

Worked example

A pensioner on Pension Credit in a band E semi might get loft top-up insulation, cavity wall insulation and a new A-rated combi boiler — total grant value £6,000–£12,000, with no contribution required.

Who should use this

  • Households on means-tested benefits
  • Pensioners on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
  • Low-income households referred by their council under LA Flex
  • Private renters with a willing landlord

Common mistakes

  • ×Paying any upfront fee — ECO4 funded works are free to the householder
  • ×Choosing the first cold-caller — get 2-3 TrustMark quotes
  • ×Not getting the landlord's written permission before survey
  • ×Confusing ECO4 with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (heat pumps only)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to switch supplier?

No. Any of the obligated suppliers can fund any home regardless of who supplies your energy.

How long does it take?

Typically 6–12 weeks from referral to install for a single measure; longer for whole-house retrofits.

What about social tenants?

Social housing has separate funding (SHDF and Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund) — your landlord applies, not you.

Related calculators