First Time Central Heating Grant with Government ECO4 Scheme

If your home has no central heating system and a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, you may qualify for free first-time central heating installation through the UK Government’s ECO4 Scheme.

What is First Time Central Heating Grant

The First Time Central Heating Grant (FTCH) is part of the UK’s ECO4 scheme, helping homes with no existing central heating. It funds the full installation of a boiler, radiators, and pipework, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating costs. The grant supports low-income or fuel-poor households, making homes warmer and more affordable to heat.

By replacing old or inefficient systems with a modern, eco-friendly boiler, the scheme helps cut carbon emissions while improving comfort and EPC ratings for eligible homeowners and private tenants.

Free Installation – Fully funded central heating through the ECO4 scheme.Free Installation – Fully funded central heating through the ECO4 scheme.
Lower Energy Bills – Efficient systems use less fuel and reduce costs.
Better Comfort & Efficiency – Enjoy consistent warmth and a higher EPC rating.

What’s Included in the Central Heating Grant?

The Central Heating Grant, part of the UK’s ECO4 scheme, covers the full installation of a central heating system for homes with no existing setup. It includes a new energy-efficient boiler, radiators, pipework, and essential heating controls to ensure reliable and efficient heating throughout your home.

You’ll also receive features like thermostats, timers, and radiator valves to help you manage your heating more effectively and reduce energy waste. In some cases, the grant may also include ventilation improvements to enhance energy performance and indoor air quality.

Warm Your Home with a Free First Time Central Heating Grant!

Homes Eligible for First Time Central Heating Under ECO4

You should choose the First Time Central Heating Grant because it’s one of the most effective ways to make your home warmer, lower energy bills, and improve efficiency. It’s ideal for homes in Scotland that currently have no central heating system, helping you install a modern, energy-efficient boiler and radiators under the government-backed ECO4 and GBIS schemes, while boosting your property’s comfort and EPC rating.

No Existing Central Heating

Homes with no central heating often struggle to stay warm and face higher energy bills. Installing a first-time central heating system provides steady warmth, better efficiency, and lower costs — keeping your home comfortable during cold Scottish winters.

Homeowner or Private Tenant

Both homeowners and private tenants can qualify for the First Time Central Heating Grant. With landlord approval, tenants can also benefit from a modern, energy-efficient system that improves comfort and helps reduce heating costs.

Homes with Solid Fuel, LPG, or Coal Heating Systems

Homes using solid fuel, LPG, or coal fires often face higher costs and uneven heating. Switching to a first-time central heating system provides cleaner, efficient warmth and lower energy bills during cold Scottish winters.

Perfect for Older or Hard-to-Heat Homes

The First Time Central Heating Grant is ideal for Scotland’s older or hard-to-heat homes that have never had a central heating system. It helps you install a modern, energy-efficient boiler and radiators, providing reliable warmth, lower energy bills, and improved comfort all year round.

Check My Eligibility

Key Points

Free Installation Funded by ECO4 –Get a fully funded central heating system, including boiler, radiators, and pipework, installed in homes that have never had one before.
Lower Energy Bills–Modern heating systems use energy more efficiently, helping you save money on fuel costs and keep your home warmer for less.
Improved Energy Efficiency – Boost your home’s EPC rating and reduce heat loss with a properly installed, energy-efficient heating system.
Enhanced Home Comfort – Enjoy faster heating, consistent warmth, and improved control over your home’s temperature.

Qualifying Benefits for FIRST TIME CENTRAL HEATING

To qualify for free first-time central heating under the ECO4 scheme, at least one person in your household must receive an approved income-based benefit or meet the scheme’s low-income eligibility criteria.

Universal Credit
Pension Gurantee Credit
Income Support
Job Seeker's Allowance
Pension Savings Credit
Employment & Support Allowance
Working Tax Credit
Housing Benefit

If anyone in your household receives one of these benefits, you could be eligible for a fully funded First time central heating grant through the UK Government’s ECO4 or GBIS scheme.

What Are the Next Steps After You Qualify for Free First time Central Heating?

Once you’re approved for funding under the ECO4 scheme, installing your first-time central heating system is simple and hassle-free. Our team manages everything — from the initial home survey to the full installation — so you can enjoy a warmer, more efficient, and comfortable home without the stress.

Your Easy 3-Step Process

Book a Free Survey

Book your free home survey to find out if your home qualifies for Free First time Central Heating. Our friendly team will visit, check your property, and guide you through the next steps to get started.

Preparing for Installation

Get ready for your Free First time Central Heating installation with a quick and simple setup. Our team will guide you through every step to make sure everything goes smoothly on the day.

Enjoy Your New Insulation

Relax and feel the difference with your new central heating system. Enjoy a warmer, cosier home and lower energy bills all year round with your free first-time central heating installation under the ECO4 scheme.

Find Out If Your Home Qualifies

The best way to know if cavity wall insulation is right for your home is to book a free, no-obligation survey. Our expert team will inspect your property, check its suitability, and guide you through the process of applying for funding under the ECO4 or GBIS schemes. If you qualify, we’ll arrange a hassle-free installation so you can start enjoying a warmer, more energy-efficient home sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First Time Central Heating Grant under the ECO4 scheme?

The First Time Central Heating Grant is a UK Government initiative under the ECO4 scheme, designed to help households with no existing central heating system. It funds the installation of a complete central heating system, including a new energy-efficient boiler, radiators, pipework, and heating controls — all at little or no cost to the homeowner or tenant.

Is the First Time Central Heating Grant really free?

Yes — for most eligible applicants, the installation is fully funded under the ECO4 or GBIS schemes. In some cases, a small contribution may be required depending on the property type and eligibility criteria, but the majority of applicants receive the upgrade completely free of charge.

What does the First Time Central Heating Grant cover?

The grant covers everything you need for a full central heating system, including a new boiler, radiators, pipework, thermostats, and heating controls. All installation work, materials, and safety checks are included, ensuring your new system is efficient, compliant, and ready to use.

Can private tenants apply for the First Time Central Heating Grant?

Yes — private tenants can apply, but they must have written consent from their landlord. The landlord will benefit from an improved EPC rating and a more energy-efficient property, while tenants enjoy lower heating bills and improved comfort.

Do I need to receive benefits to qualify for free central heating?

Usually, yes — at least one person in your household must be receiving a qualifying income-based benefit, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support. However, if you don’t receive benefits, you may still qualify through the Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LAFlex) route under the ECO4 scheme.

How long does it take to install a first-time central heating system?

Once approved, the process is quick and straightforward. A home survey is completed first to assess your property, and the installation typically takes 1–3 days, depending on the property size and layout. Everything is handled by certified installers to ensure quality and compliance.

What type of boiler will be installed through the ECO4 grant?

The grant installs A-rated, energy-efficient boilers, typically gas, LPG, or electric combi boilers, depending on your property and fuel type. In some cases, an air source heat pump may be offered as a greener, renewable alternative under ECO4 guidelines.

How can I apply for the First Time Central Heating Grant?

Applying is simple — just fill out our online eligibility form or contact our team for a free assessment. We’ll confirm your eligibility, arrange your home survey, and handle the full process from start to finish so you can enjoy a warm, efficient home with zero hassle.