Do you fancy making your rental home a bit cosier, and saving some pennies on your energy bills?
The ECO4 scheme is a government initiative funded by energy suppliers like us, designed to help improve the energy efficiency of homes across the UK. It's all about making homes warmer, greener, and cheaper to run. But how does it work for tenants? Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the eligibility as a tenant for the ECO4 Scheme?
ECO4 grants are available to tenants in England, Scotland, and Wales, but the specific eligibility criteria can vary slightly. Let's break it down for you:
Who qualifies for ECO4 grants?
ECO4 funding is generally for people in lower-income households, or those receiving certain benefits, such as:
Income Support.
Housing Benefit.
Pension Credit.
Universal Credit.
If you or someone in your home receives one of those benefits, you’re certainly more likely to qualify for ECO4 funding.
However, there are other ways to be eligible too—such as living in a property with poor energy efficiency. It’s always best to check the latest government guidelines to see the full list of qualifying benefits, as these can change over time.
Regional eligibility: Scotland, Wales, and England.
While the core scheme is UK-wide, there might be some regional variations in how ECO4 is delivered, and which specific measures are prioritised. Keep an eye out for any Scotland- or Wales-specific schemes that might be running alongside ECO4.
If you're unsure what schemes are available in your area, checking with your local authority or an approved installer can help. Your local council website is also a great place to look.
EPC rating requirements.
Your property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating plays a big role when you apply for ECO4 improvements. And generally, homes with lower EPC ratings (like E, F, or G) are prioritised. If you're not sure what your EPC rating is, you can ask your landlord, or check the national EPC register online. If your home is already pretty energy-efficient, it may not be eligible for any of the ECO4-funded upgrades.
Available grants and funding for tenants.
ECO4 offers grants for a range of energy-saving home improvements. So let's explore what's on offer:
What types of improvements are funded by the ECO4 scheme?
ECO4 funding can cover a variety of upgrades, including:
Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, and floor insulation to keep heat in.
Heating system upgrades: Replacing old, inefficient boilers or electric heating.
Renewables: In some cases, solar panels or air source heat pumps may be offered.
The amount of funding available depends on the type of improvement, for example if it’s a solar panel grant, or a heat pump grant, also the type of home you live in, and your circumstances.
Some upgrades may be fully covered by the grant, whilst others might require your landlord to contribute towards it. It's always best to speak to an approved ECO4 installer, like us, to get a personalised assessment and understand the potential funding available to you.
Funding application deadlines.
The ECO4 scheme is set to run until March 2026, but funding is allocated on a rolling basis. So if your home needs an upgrade, it’s always a good idea to check your eligibility sooner rather than later.
Government schemes can evolve and change over time, so don’t delay!
Challenges for tenants when applying for the ECO4 scheme.
Navigating any grant scheme can sometimes feel like a maze, and one of the biggest hurdles for tenants can be getting their landlord on board. Since the upgrades improve the property but don’t directly cost tenants anything, landlords will obviously have to agree to the work.
It’s important to have an open conversation with your landlord about the potential long-term benefits (like a more attractive and improved rental property.)
How can you apply as a tenant for the ECO4 Scheme?
The first step is to get in touch with an approved ECO4 installer. We can initially assess your property, determine what improvements are suitable for it, and help you with the application process.
Your ECO4 scheme application process.
The application process usually involves these steps.
Check ECO4 eligibility: You can do this through an approved ECO4 provider (like us) or local councils.
Landlord approval: Speak with your landlord and get their consent.
Survey and assessment: If eligible, an installer will assess your home.
Work gets done: Once approved, contractors will carry out the improvements.
What can a tenant get from an ECO4 scheme?
The benefits of ECO4 are huge! Think warmer, more comfortable home, potentially lower energy bills, and a smaller carbon footprint. It's a win-win-win!
Can a tenant get a heat pump from ECO4?
Heat pumps can be considered under the ECO4 scheme, but it depends on various factors, including the suitability of your property, current heating system, and the available funding. Your installer can confirm if this option is suitable for your home.
Can a tenant get solar panels from ECO4?
In some cases, yes. While solar panels aren't typically covered under the standard ECO4 scheme, there might be other government initiatives or local schemes that can help. However, landlords must approve and be willing to maintain them long-term. It’s always worth doing a bit of research or chatting with us to explore all the options.
ECO4 FAQs.
Can tenants apply without landlord approval?
Unfortunately not. Landlord approval is essential for any ECO4 improvements. As the upgrades will affect their property, their consent is of course needed.
What if my landlord refuses to participate?
You should try to explain the benefits to your landlord, not just for you but for them too. Improved energy efficiency can increase the value of their property and make it more attractive to future tenants. Some councils even offer additional incentives to encourage landlords to take part in the scheme.
Does ECO4 cover properties with short-term tenancies?
ECO4 generally focuses on longer-term tenancies to ensure the improvements benefit both the tenant and the owners of the property. Unfortunately landlords might be less inclined to make upgrades for short-term tenants.
Will my rent increase if my landlord upgrades my home under ECO4?
This is of course a valid concern, as some landlords may choose to increase rent if the upgrades significantly improve the property’s efficiency and value. It’s important to discuss this with your landlord first, before any work begins. Transparency is key.
Generally, landlords shouldn't increase rent specifically because of ECO4-funded improvements, but it's always best to have a clear agreement in place, and any rent increase should be fair and in line with market rates.
E.ON is an approved ECO4 installer, and we’ve helped many homes become warmer and more energy-efficient. We’re here to help you navigate the ECO4 scheme and make the most of this fantastic opportunity. Get in touch today for a free assessment and let's see how we can make your rental home a haven!