Blog Layout

ECO4 Government Scheme: Free Insulation and Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Eligible UK Households

SFP Contracts

In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and increase properties’ EPC rating, the UK government has launched the ECO4 scheme, which aims to provide eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades. 


Benefits of ECO4

The scheme is targeted at low-income households and those living in fuel poverty and is designed to help:



  • Reduce Energy Bills: By providing eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades, the scheme helps to reduce energy bills, making it easier for households to stay warm during the winter months.
  • Improve Living Conditions: By installing insulation and energy efficiency measures, the scheme helps to make homes more comfortable, reduce noise levels and improve indoor air quality.
  • Reduce Carbon Emissions: The scheme helps to reduce carbon emissions by promoting sustainable living and reducing energy consumption. This is an important step in creating a more sustainable future.
  • Support Low-Income Households: The ECO4 scheme is designed to reduce the financial burden of heating and cooling a home and can improve the quality of life for those living in fuel poverty.

Measures Available under ECO4


There is a big variety of measures that can be installed via the ECO4 scheme, some of the key ones include:


  • Loft Insulation: By insulating your loft, you can reduce heat loss and save up to £215 a year on your energy bills.
  • Cavity Wall Insulation: Cavity wall insulation involves filling the gap between the internal and external walls of your property, which can save you up to £145 a year on your energy bills.
  • Solid Wall Insulation: Solid wall insulation involves fitting insulation to the external or internal walls of your property, saving you up to £255 a year on your energy bills.
  • Draught Proofing: Draught-proofing measures include sealing gaps and cracks around doors and windows.
  • Double-Glazing: By installing double-glazed windows, you can save up to £115 a year on your energy bills.
  • Energy-Efficient Boilers and Heating Systems: Upgrading your boiler and/or heating system to a more energy-efficient model can help you save up to £315 a year on your energy bills.


Other measures that can be installed under the ECO4 scheme include flat & pitched roof insulation, room-in-roof insulation, floor insulation, solar PV, park home insulation and more.


Eligibility Criteria


ECO4 is available for properties with an EPC rating of E, F, or G, and the occupants are on one of the following benefits:


  • Child Benefit
  • Pension Guarantee Credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Income Support
  • Child Tax Credits
  • Working Tax Credits
  • Universal Credit (UC)
  • Pension Credit Savings Credit
  • Housing Benefit

Application Process


To apply for the ECO4 scheme, it’s best for eligible households to get in touch with an accredited installer who will take care of the entire process. This ensures that the process runs smoothly and that all the necessary measures are installed correctly.


The installer will carry out an assessment of the property to determine which energy efficiency measures are needed. They will then provide advice on the most appropriate measures and arrange for the installation of the chosen measures. 


In conclusion, the UK government's ECO4 scheme is an important initiative that provides a range of benefits for eligible households. By reducing energy bills, improving living conditions, and promoting sustainable living, this scheme helps to support low-income households while also contributing to the fight against rising carbon emissions.


If you are an eligible household, we encourage you to take advantage of this scheme and explore the free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades that are available to you. To get started, we recommend getting in touch with an accredited installer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your upgrades are installed safely and efficiently.


At SFP Contracts, we are committed to supporting households throughout the UK to access the benefits of the ECO4 scheme. If you have any questions about the scheme or how to apply, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team. We are here to help and support you in any way we can.

Home EPC Rating

Energy Efficiency Home Improvements: Where to Start & How to Save on Your Energy Bills

1 November 2023
Enhancing your home's energy efficiency is both an eco-conscious decision and a financially savvy one. This all-inclusive guide serves as your reliable roadmap toward achieving an energy-efficient home.
Loft Insulation House

Maximising Home Comfort: How Does Loft Insulation Work

26 September 2023
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the details of how loft insulation works to ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient throughout the year.

How to Choose the Right External Render for Your House

by Jub Systems • 2 August 2023
Selecting the ideal external render for your house is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your property's appearance, durability and energy efficiency. With a wide range of options available, it's essential to make an informed choice that aligns with your aesthetic preferences, budget and long-term maintenance requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the key factors to consider when selecting the right external render for your house, helping you create a stunning and long-lasting facade that enhances the overall value and comfort of your home. Assessing Your Property's Needs Before exploring render options, start by evaluating your property's unique requirements. Consider the local climate, weather exposure and the condition of your walls. Properties in regions with frequent rain or extreme temperature fluctuations may need a render with enhanced water resistance and thermal protection. Identifying areas that need extra protection or insulation will help you choose a render that offers optimal performance and longevity. Evaluating Longevity and Durability Investing in a durable render ensures that your property remains protected and visually appealing for years to come. Research the expected lifespan of different render types and consider factors such as resistance to weather conditions, cracking, fading and maintenance requirements. While some renders may require periodic repainting or touch-ups, others offer longer-lasting protection and reduced maintenance needs.

The Ultimate Guide to the Great British Insulation Scheme: Measures, Eligibility and How to Apply

by Jub Systems • 4 July 2023
Discover the ultimate guide to the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) – an extensive government initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in homes across the UK.

ECO Flex: Providing Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades for Non-Benefit Eligible Households in the UK

17 May 2023
Discover the benefits of ECO Flex, a government initiative that extends funding opportunities for home upgrades to a wider range of households in the UK.

External Wall Insulation: How it Can Reduce Your Energy Bills

1 March 2023
Discover the benefits of external wall insulation for your property. Learn how this energy-efficient measure can enhance your home's kerb appeal, reduce heat loss and your energy bills.

Do I Need Planning Permission to Renovate the Exterior of My House?

by Jub Systems • 22 February 2023
Three factors will determine if you would need planning permission to render your house or to have external wall insulation installed. These are the area your house is based in, the origin of the building and additional changes you might want to make, for example, changing the materials used in the construction of the house.

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Government Scheme: What Is It & Do You Qualify for Free Insulation?

8 February 2023
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government scheme that offers grant funding to support energy-inefficient homes, which in turn aims to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions. In this blog article, we’ll take you through all the details you need to know about the ECO funding scheme, what are the differences between ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex and do you qualify for free insulation grants. ECO: A Brief Overview ECO was developed for energy suppliers to financially support households across the UK with the aim of boosting the property’s energy efficiency and EPC rating. There are three sets of insulation grants available under the Energy Company Obligation: ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex. Each grant has its specific eligibility criteria but all of them offer the main types of energy-efficiency measures. These include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation and boiler replacement or repair. Can I Get Free Insulation? To qualify for the ECO insulation grants, you need to be the homeowner or have a signed document from your landlord granting you permission to apply. Eligibility criteria for each of the three grants vary and will depend on several factors. Here are some of the factors that if you meet, you will most likely be eligible for the grant to insulate your home: If you receive the Warm Home Discount in the 'core' group, get eligible benefits and fit the income requirements Live in social housing that has an EPC rating of E or lower (check your energy performance certificate, ask your landlord or social housing association or get in touch with an approved installer to find out ) You meet the criteria set by your Local Authority
Share by: