If your home has never had a central heating system, you might be wondering if there’s help available to install one. The good news is: yes, there is. Across the UK, many homes still rely on outdated heating methods like electric storage heaters, open fires or portable electric units—often leading to higher energy bills and less comfort. That’s where first time central heating grants come in.
This guide is designed to explain how these grants work, who is eligible, what they cover, and how you can apply with support from Green Homes Group. If you’re looking to improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency, this is the ideal place to start.
Central heating grants are part of government-supported initiatives aimed at making homes warmer and more energy-efficient. These grants fund the full or partial cost of installing central heating for the first time, especially in homes that have never had it before.
When we talk about “first time” central heating, we’re referring to homes that have never had a central heating system installed. That means there are no existing radiators, gas boilers, or connected heating infrastructure in place. Instead, these homes may rely on electric room heaters, storage units, or even solid fuel fires.
The central aim of these grants is to combat fuel poverty, reduce household energy bills, and help the UK meet its environmental targets. By supporting low-income households in making energy-efficient upgrades, the scheme ensures more people can live in warm, safe, and sustainable homes.
Funding primarily comes from the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme. Through this initiative, larger energy suppliers are legally required to help reduce carbon emissions by upgrading the heating systems of homes in need.
Not every household qualifies, so understanding the criteria is essential. Generally, these grants are aimed at low-income households, especially those in fuel poverty or living in energy-inefficient homes.
In many cases, eligibility depends on receiving certain government benefits. These include Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit, or tax credits. If you receive one or more of these, you may qualify.
Homeowners can apply directly, while tenants must get approval from their landlord. For landlords, this grant presents an opportunity to enhance their property’s energy rating and comply with energy efficiency regulations.
The property itself must also meet certain standards. It must have never had a central heating system installed. If a home already has a functioning boiler with radiators, it won’t qualify. However, homes relying on standalone heaters or fires could be eligible.
Regional variations apply too. While the ECO4 scheme covers England and Wales, there are similar programmes in Scotland (Home Energy Scotland) and Northern Ireland (NI Energy Advice).
For those who qualify, the grant usually covers the full installation of a gas central heating system. This includes the boiler, radiators in each room, a thermostat, and all necessary pipework. Labour, safety inspections, and any required surveys are typically included too.
However, it’s important to note that some supplementary upgrades, such as insulation or rewiring, may not be covered under the central heating grant alone. Other funding schemes may help with these costs, and a home energy survey will determine what’s needed.
Applying for a grant is simpler than you might expect. The first step is to check your eligibility. Green Homes Group offers a quick and easy online form for this. If you’re eligible, the next step is to book a free home survey.
This survey will assess your property and determine its suitability. After that, we’ll recommend a trusted installer from our network. If all goes smoothly, installation can often take place within a few weeks.
You’ll need to provide some basic documentation during this process—typically proof of income or benefits, a valid photo ID, and either proof of ownership or permission from your landlord if you’re renting. Having an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can also be helpful.
While most eligible households won’t need to pay anything upfront, it’s best to confirm this during the survey. In rare cases, minor contributions may be needed due to unique property requirements.
Green Homes Group isn’t an installer—but we work closely with a network of fully approved, government-accredited installers across the UK. Our job is to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
From checking your eligibility to booking your survey and referring you to a trusted professional, we’re here to support you from start to finish. By acting as the bridge between households and reliable installers, we’ve already helped thousands of people access life-changing home upgrades.
Installing central heating for the first time can be a game-changer. One of the biggest benefits is improved energy efficiency. Compared to old electric heaters or open fires, a modern gas boiler system can significantly reduce your monthly energy bills.
There’s also the added comfort. A warm, evenly heated home has a positive impact on your health and well-being, particularly during the winter months. It also helps protect your property from damp and mould.
From an environmental perspective, switching to a more efficient system reduces your carbon footprint. And for homeowners or landlords, central heating can increase property value and make it more attractive to future buyers or tenants.
Many people wonder if they can reapply if previously rejected. The answer is yes—if your circumstances change, such as a shift in household income or benefits, you might become eligible.
Another common question is whether partial heating systems disqualify a home. This depends on what’s currently in place. A single gas fire or a couple of electric heaters usually won’t disqualify you, but a full radiator system connected to a boiler would.
There’s no fixed deadline for applications, but funding is limited and subject to availability. The ECO4 scheme is scheduled to run until March 2026, though earlier applications are recommended.
And finally, many ask about upfront costs. In the vast majority of cases, especially where applicants meet all criteria, there is no upfront payment required. Everything from the survey to installation is handled through the grant.
If your home has never had central heating, now is the time to act. With government-backed support, improving your home’s warmth, efficiency, and value is more accessible than ever. Not only will you benefit from lower energy bills and greater comfort, but you’ll also contribute to the UK’s environmental goals.
Don’t wait until winter to take action. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits.
At Green Homes Group, we specialise in helping households like yours access first time central heating grants. We’ll handle the paperwork, arrange your free survey, and connect you with a trusted installer.
You don’t need to research heating systems or negotiate with multiple contractors—we’ve done all that for you. What you get is a simple, stress-free process from enquiry to installation.
Click here to check your eligibility and book your free home survey today. Your warmer, more efficient home is just a few steps away.
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