ECO4 FAQs For Wales
ECO4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Introduction to the ECO4 grant scheme.
Thinking about improving the energy performance of your home? Wanting to reduce your fuel bills considerably but not sure where to start? Would you like to reduce your carbon footprint and help save the planet? You’re not alone.
Many homeowners want to save on energy bills, make their homes warmer, and reduce their carbon footprint — but they also have questions about costs, suitability, and potential risks.
The good news: you could qualify for an ECO4 grant. You could get your home insulated, your heating upgraded and solar panels – all for free. But you will need to apply soon – there are only 5 months left.
To help you decide if it’s right for you, we’ve put together the 20 most frequently asked questions about the ECO4 grant scheme — covering everything from how it works, to costs, grants, installation, and guarantees.
1. What is ECO4?
ECO4 is a government-backed grant scheme that helps people make their homes warmer, more energy efficient, and cheaper to run. It is a “whole house” grant, not just a single measure.
2. Who pays for ECO4?
The big UK energy companies fund the scheme, so it shouldn’t cost you anything if you qualify. We all pay a “Green Levy” in our fuel bills, and this is where the grant money comes from. So, as usual, we are paying for it.
3. How long will ECO4 run?
It started in July 2022 and will run until March 2026. However, it is whispered that it will continue until an ECO5 scheme is launched. The Government have not yet spoken about ECO5.
4. Who can get help through ECO4?
You may qualify if you receive certain benefits (see question 5 below, for the list), or have a low income (gross annual household income less than £31,000), or suffer from a cardiovascular condition, a respiratory disease, limited mobility or Immunosuppression.
5. Which benefits count?
This is the list of qualifying benefits:
- Pension Credit
- Income-Based Job Seekers’ Allowance
- Universal Credit – No income threshold
- Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance
- Tax Credits (including Working and Child Tax Credits) – No income threshold
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit – NEW
- Child Benefit/Family Allowance. Income Thresholds apply – see table below.
| Number of children | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| 1 adult household | £19,900 | £24,800 | £29,600 | £34,500 |
| 2 adult household | £27,500 | £32,300 | £37,200 | £42,000 |
6. Can I still apply if I don’t get benefits?
Yes! Local councils can approve applications through Local Authority Flexible Funding (LA Flex). It is not the local authority’s money. It is still ECO4 money, which is set aside for LA Flex. We would complete the application and submit it to the local authority with all of the required paperwork.
7. What improvements can I get?
Upgrades may include various types of insulation, heating system replacements, boiler upgrades, and even renewable energy, such as air source heat pumps and solar panels. All measures come with a government-approved guarantee. The average value of an ECO4 grant is in excess of £30,000.
8. Will I need to pay anything?
99% of all improvements are free. However, in some rare cases, the grant will not be able to fully cover the cost of the improvements. Therefore, you might be asked to make a small contribution. This will be agreed prior to any work starting.
The grant is not a fixed amount of money. It will depend on the size of the property, the EPC rating, and what improvements are being installed.
9. How do I apply?
You can apply by completing our enquiry form or calling us on 07960 799681 or 08008 101060
10. Can landlords apply?
Yes, if the tenants qualify. The landlord may need to make a small contribution (as per question 8)
11. Does ECO4 cover rented homes?
Yes, privately rented homes can qualify if the tenant meets the criteria and the landlord gives consent.
12. Does it apply to social housing?
No, ECO4 mainly focuses on private homes that are hard to heat.
13. Why does my EPC rating matter?
Your EPC rating shows how energy efficient your home is. ECO4 gives priority to homes with the lowest ratings (E, F, or G). The EPC rating is a factor in the calculation that decides the value of the ECO4 grant. You can find your EPC on this Government website.
14. Can I choose what improvements I get?
A Retrofit Assessor will survey your home and recommend the best upgrades, but you’ll have a say too.
15. How long does it take?
From the first survey to the work being completed can take a few weeks or sometimes a couple of months, depending on the weather.
16. Do I need planning permission?
Usually not. However, planning permission could be required for Listed Buildings and homes in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
17. Will it add value to my home?
Yes, making your home more energy efficient can increase its value and lower running costs. Most of these grants are in excess of £30,000. Any home that has £30,000 of energy efficiency improvements made will see a significant increase in value.
18. What if I already got help under ECO3?
You might still qualify if your home needs and qualifies for further energy efficiency improvements.
19. Who does the work?
Only approved and accredited installers carry out the upgrades, so you’re in safe hands.
20. How much money could I save?
It depends on your home and what measures are being installed, but most people save hundreds of pounds a year on energy bills. You could halve your fuel bills.
If you’re ready to enjoy a warmer home and lower energy bills, the next step is simple: book a free, no-obligation survey with our team. We’ll check if your property is suitable, explain your options, and let you know if you qualify for government grants or local funding schemes to reduce the cost.
Don’t wait another winter — start saving energy and money now!
Call us now, and speak with one of our ECO4 experts on 07960 799681 ot 08008 10 10 60
or
Complete our Enquiry Form
