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Free Boiler Grant & Eligibility

Government-backed energy-efficiency funding helps lower-income and vulnerable households replace an old, inefficient boiler with a new, A-rated condensing model. This page explains who can apply, what counts as a qualifying old boiler, and exactly how to check your eligibility.

The golden rule: you must already have a qualifying old boiler — usually one installed before 2005. The schemes exist to remove the worst-performing systems, so a modern, efficient boiler will not be eligible.
Eligibility checklist for a boiler grant
Check the criteria in minutes
An old boiler that may qualify
A qualifying old boiler is essential
A new funded boiler
A funded A-rated replacement

Who is eligible for a free boiler grant?

Eligibility is assessed against the rules of the relevant national scheme (for example the Energy Company Obligation, often called ECO). The exact criteria are updated by government from time to time, but in general a household is more likely to qualify if it meets both of the following:

1. The property has a qualifying old boiler

Your existing boiler should be old and inefficient — typically a non-condensing model installed before 2005. The main qualifying types are open-flue conventional boilers, back boilers, floor-standing boilers, non-condensing wall-hung boilers, older combi boilers and oil boilers. If you are unsure, our guide on how to tell if you have an old boiler walks you through the simple checks.

2. The household meets the income or benefits criteria

Funding is targeted at households on lower incomes or in receipt of certain means-tested benefits. Benefits that are commonly considered include Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Child Benefit (within income thresholds), Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit. Some local schemes also help households not on benefits but on a low income or living with a health condition made worse by a cold home, through routes such as ECO Flex.

Both homeowners and private tenants can often apply, though tenants will usually need the landlord's permission for the work. Social housing is handled differently, generally through the housing provider.

What you could receive

Where an application is approved, the funding can cover the supply and installation of a new A-rated condensing boiler, including removal of the old unit and the necessary controls such as a programmer and thermostatic radiator valves. In many cases the work is fully funded with nothing to pay. Occasionally a small contribution is required, depending on the scheme and the property; if so, we will explain it clearly and in writing before any commitment.

ItemTypically included
New A-rated condensing boilerYes, where funded
Removal of old boilerYes
Programmer / smart controlsUsually
Thermostatic radiator valvesOften
Manufacturer warrantyYes

How to apply — step by step

  1. Complete the eligibility form below. Share your benefits status, postcode and boiler type. There is no obligation and your details are handled in line with our privacy notice.
  2. We confirm the scheme. Our team checks which funding route fits your circumstances and lets you know what to expect.
  3. Free survey. A surveyor confirms your old boiler qualifies and assesses the installation.
  4. Installation. A Gas Safe registered engineer fits your new boiler, usually within a day.

Check your eligibility now

Fill in the short form and we will be in touch to confirm whether you qualify. If you would rather talk to a person, call 0800 246 8135.

Please note: Northern Boiler Grants does not decide grant awards. Funding is provided through national schemes and delivered by approved installers, subject to eligibility, survey and funding availability. We will never ask you to pay for the eligibility check.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my boiler is old enough to qualify?
Boilers installed before 2005 are generally non-condensing and inefficient. Check the manufacture or installation date on the boiler, or look for a separate hot-water cylinder and loft tanks, which usually indicate an older system. Our 'how to tell' guide explains the checks.
Can I apply if I rent?
Often yes, if you are a private tenant and your landlord consents to the work. Social tenants should speak to their housing provider.
Will the grant cover a heat pump instead?
Some schemes support other low-carbon heating, but this site focuses on like-for-like boiler replacements for households that currently rely on an old boiler.
Is there really nothing to pay?
In most approved cases the work is fully funded. If any contribution is needed, we will tell you the exact amount in writing before you agree to anything.

See if you qualify for a free boiler

It takes about 60 seconds and there is no obligation. You must have a qualifying old boiler installed before 2005.

Check my eligibility Or call 0800 246 8135