Every grant has its own rules, but they share a lot of common ground.
Understanding how eligibility and applications generally work — and how to
spot a scam — helps you apply with confidence.
What usually decides eligibility
Most home-energy and support grants look at some mix of your income or benefits, your property (its energy rating, heating type or council tax band), and your tenure (owner, private tenant or social tenant — with the landlord’s permission needed for tenants). Some schemes are run nationally; others, like the Warm Homes: Local Grant (and ECO Flex, until ECO4 ends on 31 December 2026), are decided locally, so your council’s criteria matter.
How to apply
Applications usually go through your local council, an approved installer, or a scheme’s referral portal. Use a free benefits calculator first to see the wider support you qualify for, and gather proof of income, benefits and property details before you start.
Avoid grant scams
Genuine grant schemes never ask you to pay a fee to “unlock” a grant, and legitimate installers don’t cold-call demanding quick decisions. Never pay upfront for a grant, check that any installer is properly certified (MCS and TrustMark for energy work), and take your time.
What to do next
See the live schemes on our Grants and funding hub, then apply through your council or a certified installer. If you’ve been targeted by a grant scam, see scams and mis-selling.
Sources
GOV.UK (find energy grants — Help to Heat); Ofgem; TrustMark. Reviewed: 3 September 2026.