Is the Free Boiler Scheme Available in All Councils?

The same question is asked by many homeowners and tenants: Is the Free Boiler Scheme offered in all council areas? The short answer to this question is no. Reality is more complex. The program is extensive. The scheme is widely available, but it depends on several factors. This includes who is running the scheme, paying for it and whether or not a home meets strict requirements. This article explains the scheme’s operation. This article also shows you where the scheme is most likely to be found. There are clear facts, current statistics and practical advice. Learn what to expect, and how you can check if support is available.

What do people mean by “Free Boiler Scheme”

The term “Free Boiler Scheme” usually refers to funded heater or boiler replacement for eligible households that are free or low-cost. Many of these offers were made in recent years through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4). ECO4 is a programme backed by the government. To achieve energy savings, large energy suppliers are required to meet certain targets. This is done by providing funding for insulation, heating upgrades and boiler replacements in eligible homes. This help is targeted at households with low incomes and those who are vulnerable. ECO4 does not represent a grant from a local council. It is instead delivered by energy providers and their installer partners who often work with local councils or charities. This is the reason why availability can vary from one place to another.

Who decides whether a household can get a free boiler?

A set of eligibility criteria is used to make the decision. The rules are determined by regulators as well as the administrators of the schemes. Ofgem, the Department for Energy Security, and Net Zero publish the rules for ECO4. When offering a measure, an energy provider must adhere to these rules. Local councils are able to assist with identification. Local councils can help with identification by using “Flexible eligibility” to nominate houses that meet local needs. Councils don’t directly control ECO4 budgets for each area. This budget is allocated to energy providers under national targets. This can lead to one council seeing many installations while another has fewer, even if the need is similar.

Does every council get the same level of support?

No. Delivery can vary. Some councils have close relationships with installers and suppliers. Some councils participate in referral programmes. They help residents to apply. Some councils are less able to assist residents. This difference impacts how many households within a council receive a free upgrade to their heating or boiler. The scheme is run under the same rules in England, Scotland and Wales, but the delivery takes place locally. This results in uneven outcomes. You may have an easier time obtaining support if you live in an area with a proactive local council. You may need to contact suppliers directly if you live in an area with fewer local partnership agreements. Statistics and industry reports show that there are large differences between the locations where these measures have been installed. These differences are a reflection of local partnerships, housing stocks and regional needs.

Who is eligible for ECO4 heating support?

The eligibility is determined by income, household vulnerability and energy efficiency. Many of the people who receive help are receiving means-tested benefits. Other councils may nominate households through Flexible Eligibility. Both owners and tenants are eligible, but tenants must have permission from their landlords. Only certain conditions apply to social housing. Priority is given to homes with inefficient heating systems or inadequate insulation. Ofgem’s guidance provides detailed criteria so that suppliers can verify eligibility and record installation. You can check with your local installer or energy provider if you’re unsure.

How many households have benefited so far?

ECO4 has delivered a substantial amount of work. Around 875,900 measures will have been installed by mid-2025 and reached approximately 260,400 homes under ECO4. Since the ECO scheme was launched, millions of measures have been delivered across the entire programme. The Energy Company Obligation has already assisted in the insulation and heating upgrade of hundreds of thousands of homes. These figures show the scope of the program, but also the fact that there is still a great need. This level of delivery is good news for those who qualify, but not everyone is eligible.

Where demand is highest: off-gas, rural and older homes

The cost of heating homes that are not connected to a mains gas grid is often higher. The research shows that there are large regional differences in the percentage of households using off-grid energy. Inner London, parts of Scotland, and Wales, as well as the South West, have higher proportions of homes that use off-gas, while the northern regions have lower numbers. This is clearly mapped out in the Department for Energy statistics and climate briefings and by parliamentary research. If you live off the grid or in an older home, you’re more likely to fall under central programs aimed at reducing bills and emissions. This increases the likelihood that your council area is featured in outreach and supplier activities.

Are all heating measures covered or only boilers?

ECO4 finances a variety of measures. This includes heat pumps and efficient boilers, as well as insulation, draught-proofing, solid wall insulation. Ofgem’s Delivery Guidance explains what measures are eligible and how suppliers may claim them. The chosen measure is often determined by the property or the most cost-effective way to reduce bills. It is not necessary to replace every boiler. Some homes will be given insulation or heat pumps instead. Each measure comes with technical standards and rules for installation. To claim the ECO4 credits, suppliers must demonstrate that their work meets the standards.

Eco Energy Services: a trusted partner

Eco Energy Services can be a good partner if you’re looking for someone to assist with the application process and installation. The ECO4 Scheme allows them to provide free heating upgrades for eligible households. Their teams assist with surveys, advice and paperwork to qualify. Eco Energy Services is a great option if your council requires a partner or yif ou want a local person to help you navigate the process. Local authorities and charities work with suppliers who are trusted to ensure that installations meet standards and rules. Ask the supplier about their ECO4 record, and ask for references or case studies.

A realistic view of outcomes

Not all applications will result in a free boiler, even when the programme is active. Some homes require a different solution first. Some installations are rejected on technical grounds. The national picture shows that ECO4 has benefited thousands of homes. To date, the programme has installed hundreds and thousands of measures. There will be more opportunities to fund upgrades as the programme continues to deliver until March 2026, and there are follow-up policies planned. It is important to act quickly, collect your documents and contact your local council and supplier for assistance.

Conclusion

Free Boiler Schemes are widely available, but not all of them. National schemes like ECO4 define the rules and finance the work. Delivery depends on local factors, including supplier focus, installer capability, and council involvement. While these programs aim to offset theNew Boiler Cost for those in need, many councils also work hard to assist residents in obtaining support if they are eligible. Consult official guidelines from Ofgem or the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for current rules and deadlines. Contact your energy provider, your council, or a trusted partner such as Eco Energy Services for help. You can increase your chances of receiving a subsidised or free heating upgrade by using the right approach.