See if You’re Eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
To determine if you qualify for a grant, the following conditions must be met:
- Ownership: You must be the owner of the property for which you’re applying. This includes properties used for business, second homes, or those rented out to tenants.
- Fossil Fuel Replacement: The grant is applicable if you’re replacing fossil fuel heating systems, such as oil, gas, or electric.
Additional Points
- Prior Funding: You remain eligible even if you’ve previously received funding to enhance your property’s energy efficiency, like insulation.
- Property Eligibility: Your property must possess a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation. In case there are recommendations, refer to the official guidelines for further information.
- MCS Installer: If you’re not sure whether your property is suitable for a low carbon heating system, speak to an MCS certified installer, such as ourselves and we can discuss your options.
Biomass Boiler Grant
A grant for a biomass boiler is available if the following criteria are met:
- Gas Grid: Your property is not connected to the gas grid.
- Rural Location: The property is situated in a rural location. If unsure, refer to Ofgem guidance for property owners.
- Emissions Certificate: Your biomass boiler must possess an emissions certificate, demonstrating minimal pollutant emissions.
Please note: Grants for biomass boilers are not applicable to self-build properties.
Properties you cannot get a grant for
The grant cannot be obtained for the following types of properties:
- Most New Build Properties: Grants are generally not available for most new build properties that are still under construction.
- Social Housing: Social housing properties are not eligible.
- Already Funded Properties: Properties that have already received government funding or support for a heat pump or biomass boiler are not eligible for the grant.
Additional Considerations
- New Build Property Ownership: New build properties that are still being constructed by the developer are not eligible. However, if you move into a finished new build property with a fossil fuel boiler, you may qualify for a grant for a heat pump.
- Self-Build Property Ownership: Self-build properties are eligible if you or the original owner constructed the property or if you hired a builder for the construction. Proof of self-build status, such as a copy of the title deeds, will be required for verification by your installer.
How to Apply
To apply for the grant, follow these steps:
- You must find an MCS Certified Installer: SJ Howard Plumbing engineers are MCS certified to carry out this work. We will provide you with quotes and guidance you need.
- Confirm Eligibility: We will assess your eligibility and confirm whether you meet the criteria for the grant.
- Quoting Process: A quote will be provided to you for the installation work.
- Installer Application: We will submit the application on your behalf through the Ofgem website.
- Grant Deduction: The grant amount will be deducted from the total installation cost, reducing the amount you need to pay.
Next Steps
After the application, the following steps will happen:
- Confirmation from Ofgem: Ofgem will contact you to verify that we, the installer, are acting on your behalf. They may reach out via phone or visit your property for installation verification purposes.
- Checks by MCS: MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) may contact you separately to conduct their own checks as part of the process.
It’s important to follow the instructions provided by Ofgem and MCS during this stage to ensure a smooth application and verification process.
Getting Help
If you’re having problems with your new heating system, speak to us so we can help you.
If you need help with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can contact Ofgem:
Book Your Consultation
If you fee ready to apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, contact us for a consultation so we can get the ball rolling.
