Affordable Warmth Scheme

What the Affordable Warmth Scheme Means for Your Home

This page provides detailed guidance on the Affordable Warmth Scheme, a UK government-led initiative supporting energy efficiency improvements in homes affected by fuel poverty. 

The scheme is part of the broader Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme and is primarily designed for low-income households. The information here explains the scheme’s benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.

The Affordable Warmth Scheme, introduced in 2013, forms one of the key components of the UK Government’s strategy to combat fuel poverty. Fuel poverty occurs when a household cannot maintain adequate warmth without spending a disproportionately high share of its income on energy.

Through the scheme, eligible households may receive financial support or free improvements to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills.

The Affordable Warmth Scheme operates under the umbrella of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO). The ECO programme is a regulatory framework that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in homes that are hard to heat affordably.

Under the ECO4 phase (the current version), the programme prioritises:

• Households in receipt of qualifying benefits
• Properties with low energy performance ratings (EPC ratings E, F, or G)
• Residents in local authority-approved circumstances (LA Flex provisions)

The following home improvements may be funded through the scheme:

• Loft Insulation: Reduces heat loss through the roof and lowers heating expenses.
• Cavity Wall Insulation: Suitable for properties built before 1983 with uninsulated external cavity walls.
• Boiler Replacement or Repair: Applicable if your existing boiler is non-functional or highly inefficient.
• Other Heating Upgrades: May include radiator replacements, smart thermostats, or heating controls.

All improvements must be delivered by registered and ECO-compliant installers.

Check your EPC Rating

Benefits of Participating

Households qualifying under the scheme may receive:

• Lower annual heating and energy costs
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
• Improved Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings
• Increased indoor comfort and reduced heat variation across rooms
• Enhanced market value and rental appeal for property owners

To qualify for assistance under the Affordable Warmth Scheme, you must either:

• Be a homeowner or private tenant (with landlord permission)
• Reside in a property with a low energy efficiency rating (E, F, or G)
• Receive at least one of the following income-based benefits:
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Income Support (IS)
  • Universal Credit (UC)
  • Working Tax Credit (WTC)
  • Child Tax Credit (CTC)
  • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit (PCGC)
  • Pension Credit Savings Credit (PCSC)
  • Housing Benefit
  • Child Benefit (with income threshold considerations)

In addition, social housing tenants living in poorly rated properties may qualify.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required to determine eligibility. It rates a home’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The scheme primarily targets properties rated E, F, or G.

If your EPC rating is outdated or unavailable, a certified assessor may perform a new inspection as part of your application process.

Tenants in private rented accommodation may access support if:

• They obtain written consent from the landlord
• The landlord agrees to allow eligible improvements
• The property meets other qualifying criteria (e.g. EPC rating, benefit status)

To begin your application:

1. Check Your Eligibility
   Use the online eligibility checker provided by your local council or energy supplier.
2. Contact a Certified Installer or Energy Provider
   Energy suppliers obligated under ECO must assist eligible customers. Alternatively, contact a certified third-party installer approved for ECO work.
3. Arrange a Property Assessment
   A home energy survey is conducted to determine the appropriate upgrades.
4. Schedule and Authorise Work
   If eligible, improvements may be completed at no cost to you. Final approval is required before installation begins.

If you encounter difficulties or suspect improper conduct during your application, refer to:

• ECO4 Regulations & Complaints Guidance
• Ombudsman Services if your energy supplier fails to meet obligations
• Consumer Rights CIC Contact Page for tailored assistance

• Use our online EPC checker to confirm your property’s energy rating.
• Contact your current energy supplier and request ECO4 assistance under the Affordable Warmth Scheme.
• Gather proof of benefits or income as required for eligibility verification.
• If you are a tenant, obtain written approval from your landlord before proceeding.
• For any disputes or concerns, consult the ECO4 complaints process or local authority energy officer.