Boiler and heat-pump grants in Nottingham: ECO4, Warm Homes Plan and how to apply (2026)

The main schemes in 2026

ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) is the big one for lower-income and vulnerable households, funding insulation and heating upgrades including, in some cases, a replacement boiler or first-time central heating. It is currently due to close on 31 December 2026, so if you think you qualify, it's worth acting this year rather than leaving it.

The Warm Homes Plan is the Government's wider, longer-term programme to upgrade the energy efficiency of homes, expected to channel funding into insulation and low-carbon heating over the coming years — useful to keep an eye on as the detail and local delivery firm up.

Separately, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme gives grants towards an air-source heat pump (and ground-source) in England — a substantial contribution off the install cost. It's aimed at replacing fossil-fuel heating with a heat pump, not at a like-for-like gas boiler swap.

Who qualifies, and how to apply

ECO4 is means-tested: eligibility usually depends on receiving certain benefits, or on living in a low-income or vulnerable household referred through your local authority (often called LA Flex). Properties with poorer energy ratings are prioritised. You don't apply to "the government" directly — applications go through energy suppliers and their approved installers, and your council's website is a good, scam-free starting point.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat-pump grant is open to most homeowners regardless of income, but the property usually needs a valid EPC with no outstanding insulation recommendations. Crucially, you don't claim it yourself — an MCS-certified installer applies for the grant on your behalf and deducts it from your quote.

For any scheme, start with official sources: GOV.UK, the Ofgem website, Nottingham City Council, or the free, impartial advice from organisations like the Energy Saving Trust and Citizens Advice. They'll tell you which schemes you actually qualify for before anyone tries to sell you anything.

Avoiding grant scams (and getting good work)

Grant schemes attract cold-callers, texts and door-knockers promising "free" boilers or heat pumps to pressure you into signing up. Treat unsolicited contact with suspicion — legitimate schemes don't need to cold-call, and you should never pay an upfront "admin fee" to access a government grant.

Check installers are properly accredited: TrustMark for ECO work, MCS certification for heat pumps, and Gas Safe registration for any gas boiler work. Ask to see it, and verify it on the official register rather than taking a logo at face value.

Even with a grant, get the underlying work quoted properly. On Rank My Builder you can reach verified local gas engineers and heating installers, check genuine reviews, and compare what's actually included — so the grant goes towards good work, not an inflated price.

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