Quick answer: Clarify installer-led applications, homeowner consent, evidence, communication and protection against misleading application claims. The correct outcome depends on the property, its existing heating system and the installation proposed by an MCS-certified installer.
What property owners need to know
Clarify installer-led applications, homeowner consent, evidence, communication and protection against misleading application claims. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports eligible property owners in England and Wales with an upfront contribution towards qualifying lower-carbon heating. It is not a general boiler-replacement payment, and an enquiry does not guarantee that a property or installation will qualify.
The application is normally installer-led. A suitable MCS-certified installer assesses the building, recommends an eligible system and submits the voucher application. The property owner may then be asked to confirm consent and verify details before the application progresses.
How the Boiler Upgrade Scheme process works
- Check the main rules. Review the property’s location, ownership, existing heating and proposed replacement technology.
- Discuss the property. Provide accurate information about the building, heating, hot-water needs, insulation and available space.
- Arrange an assessment. The installer should calculate heat loss and identify equipment, radiator, pipework, electrical or building work that may be required.
- Review the written quotation. Check the system design, included work, exclusions, grant contribution, remaining balance, warranties and proposed timescale.
- Confirm the application. The installer submits the voucher application and the property owner completes any required consent or verification step.
Grant support and installation costs
Current support can include £7,500 for standard air-to-water and ground-source heat pumps, £2,500 for qualifying air-to-air heat pumps and £5,000 for qualifying biomass boilers. Certain off-gas-grid properties replacing oil or LPG heating with an air-to-water or ground-source heat pump may qualify for £9,000.
The grant is normally deducted from the eligible installation price rather than paid directly to the property owner. It may not cover the complete project. Radiator changes, electrical upgrades, ground works, access arrangements or other supporting work can affect the remaining cost.
Grant values and rules can change. Check the current scheme position and obtain a property-specific written proposal before committing to work.
Why the property assessment matters
A heating system should be designed around the building rather than selected from a generic online estimate. Room sizes, insulation, windows, radiators, pipework, hot-water demand, outdoor space and electrical capacity can all affect suitability and system size.
A good assessment should also identify practical constraints before installation begins. Ask the installer to explain why the recommended technology is suitable, how the output was calculated and which additional changes are included in the quotation.
Questions to ask before proceeding
- Does the property meet the current eligibility requirements?
- Which eligible technology is being recommended, and why?
- How was the property’s heat demand calculated?
- What work is included and specifically excluded?
- How much will the grant deduct from the total price?
- What balance will remain for the property owner?
- Which product and workmanship warranties are included?
Frequently asked questions
Can I submit the grant application myself?
No. The grant application is normally submitted by the MCS-certified installer responsible for the eligible installation.
Does making an enquiry commit me to installation?
No. An initial enquiry allows the property and heating requirements to be discussed. Review the complete written proposal before deciding whether to proceed.
Will the grant cover every cost?
Not necessarily. The grant reduces the eligible installation cost, but the property owner remains responsible for the balance and any work outside the grant-funded scope.
Are lower energy bills guaranteed?
No. Future running costs depend on the previous system, energy prices, building efficiency, system design, controls, weather and household use.
Related guidance
Start an eligibility enquiry
Tell us about the property, current heating and the system being considered. An installer or adviser can then contact you to discuss the most appropriate next step.
Start your eligibility enquiry
This website provides an independent heating-upgrade enquiry and installer-matching service. It is not a government department or the official Boiler Upgrade Scheme administrator. Review the current eligibility guidance before committing to installation work.