ECO4 Tenant Support Grant: How to Qualify for Free Boilers Before March 2026

The ECO4 Tenant Support Grant offers eligible households access to free energy efficiency improvements, including boiler replacements. As an energy efficiency specialist, I regularly help tenants navigate this valuable scheme. The ECO4 program runs until March 2026, creating a limited window of opportunity for those who qualify. This guide focuses specifically on how health conditions can help you access free boiler installations through this government initiative.

What is the ECO4 Tenant Support Grant?

The ECO4 scheme is the fourth iteration of the Energy Company Obligation program. It requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency measures for qualifying households. The scheme particularly focuses on those with health conditions living in energy inefficient homes. The current ECO4 program has a firm end date of March 2026, after which a new scheme will likely replace it.

Who Qualifies for a Free Boiler Under ECO4?

Qualification for a free boiler through ECO4 typically follows these criteria:

• Recipients of qualifying benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit
• Households with someone suffering from a qualifying health condition
• Living in a property with poor energy efficiency rating (typically E, F or G)
• Property must be suitable for the proposed heating system

The scheme prioritizes vulnerable households where inefficient heating systems could worsen existing health conditions.

Which Health Conditions Qualify for ECO4 Support?

Several health conditions can qualify households for ECO4 support:

• Cardiovascular conditions
• Respiratory conditions like COPD or asthma
• Limited mobility issues
• Immune system diseases
• Cancer
• Diabetes

These conditions make individuals more vulnerable to living in cold homes, creating a clear pathway to ECO4 eligibility.

How Does the March 2026 Deadline Impact Applications?

The ECO4 scheme has a definitive end date of March 2026. This creates several important considerations:

• All installations must be completed before the deadline
• Application processing times can take several months
• Demand typically increases as the deadline approaches
• Funding allocation may become more competitive

I recommend applying at least 6-8 months before the deadline to ensure your application has sufficient processing time.

What Documentation is Needed for Health Condition Verification?

When applying based on health conditions, you will typically need:

• Medical diagnosis documentation from your GP or specialist
• Prescription records showing medication related to qualifying conditions
• Proof of hospital appointments or treatments
• Letter from healthcare provider confirming your condition

This evidence helps establish the link between your health needs and the requirement for improved heating.

What Types of Free Boilers are Available Through ECO4?

ECO4 typically offers these heating solutions:

• Energy efficient gas boilers (A-rated models)
• Oil boilers for properties without gas connections
• LPG systems for rural properties
• Some electric heating options where appropriate

The specific system recommended depends on property assessment and individual circumstances.

How Does a New Boiler Help Health Conditions?

A new, efficient boiler can significantly impact health by:

• Providing reliable, consistent heating for those with respiratory conditions
• Reducing dampness that can exacerbate asthma and COPD
• Creating a warmer environment for individuals with circulation issues
• Lowering heating costs, reducing financial stress for those managing health conditions

This direct connection between heating reliability and health outcomes forms the foundation of the ECO4 eligibility criteria.

What is the Application Process Timeline?

The typical ECO4 application process follows these steps:

• Initial eligibility assessment (1-2 weeks)
• Property survey and technical assessment (2-3 weeks)
• Application approval (3-4 weeks)
• Installation scheduling (4-8 weeks)

Given this timeline, applications submitted too close to the March 2026 deadline risk not being completed in time.

Are There Alternative Options if ECO4 Deadline is Missed?

If you cannot access ECO4 before March 2026, consider:

• Monitoring announcements for ECO5 (expected successor program)
• Local authority hardship funds
• Charitable organizations offering heating assistance
• NHS support schemes for those with severe health conditions

However, these alternatives may offer less comprehensive support than the current ECO4 program.

How to Start Your ECO4 Application Today

To begin accessing the ECO4 Tenant Support Grant:

• Contact your energy supplier to check if they participate in ECO4
• Reach out to ECO4 approved installers in your area
• Gather medical documentation for health condition verification
• Request an initial property assessment

Remember that ECO4 funding for free boiler replacements runs only until March 2026, so timely application is essential. The scheme specifically targets households with qualifying health conditions who would benefit most from improved heating systems. With proper documentation and prompt application, eligible tenants can secure vital heating improvements that support better health outcomes and energy efficiency.

Written by Phil Owen owner of Green Assess