What Is ECO4?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund home energy improvements for low-income and vulnerable households. It runs until March 2026, with extensions expected. Through ECO4 you can receive free insulation, boiler replacements, and heating upgrades — all at zero cost to you.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for ECO4
- Check your eligibility online. Use our free eligibility checker. You'll need to confirm which benefits you receive, your property type, and your postcode. It takes under 60 seconds.
- Submit your details. If you're likely eligible, provide your name, address, and contact information. An approved installer will be assigned to your area.
- Home survey. A qualified surveyor visits your property (usually within 1-2 weeks) to assess what measures are needed. They'll check your insulation, heating system, windows, and EPC rating.
- Receive your recommendation. Based on the survey, you'll be told exactly which measures you qualify for — this could be loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, a new boiler, or a combination.
- Agree and schedule installation. If you're happy with the recommendation, installation is booked at a time that suits you. There is nothing to pay.
- Installation day. TrustMark-registered installers carry out the work. Most measures take 1-3 days depending on the type of improvement.
Important: You never pay a penny. ECO4 is funded by energy companies under a legal obligation set by the government and regulated by Ofgem.
What Documents Do You Need?
To apply for ECO4, you'll typically need:
- Proof of qualifying benefit — a recent award letter or benefits statement (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, or Housing Benefit)
- Proof of address — a utility bill or council tax bill
- Landlord permission — if you're a private tenant, written consent from your landlord
- EPC certificate — the installer can check this for you, but having it speeds things up
How Long Does the ECO4 Process Take?
| Stage | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Eligibility check | Under 60 seconds |
| Surveyor visit | 1-2 weeks |
| Approval & scheduling | 1-2 weeks |
| Installation | 1-3 days |
| Total end-to-end | 4-8 weeks |
Which Benefits Qualify You for ECO4?
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit (income under £16,480)
- Working Tax Credit (income under £16,480)
- Housing Benefit
- Warm Home Discount (Core Group)
What Measures Can You Get Through ECO4?
- Loft insulation — save up to £590/year
- Cavity wall insulation — save up to £395/year
- Solid wall insulation — save up to £475/year
- Boiler replacement — new A-rated condensing boiler
- Air source heat pump — low-carbon heating
- Room-in-roof insulation — for converted lofts
- Underfloor insulation — for suspended timber floors
Can Tenants Apply?
Yes. Both private tenants and social housing tenants can apply for ECO4. The tenant's benefits determine eligibility, not the landlord's income. You will need your landlord's written permission for the work to go ahead. Most landlords agree readily since it improves their property at no cost to them.