Energy Grants for First-Time Buyers & New Homeowners
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Just bought your first home? You may be able to access thousands of pounds in government grants to improve your property's energy efficiency — reducing your bills and making your home more comfortable from day one.
First-time buyers must meet the eligibility criteria of each individual scheme. Not all schemes are available in all parts of the UK.
Grants available to new homeowners
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
If your new home has a gas, oil, or LPG boiler (or electric heating), you can get up to £7,500 towards replacing it with a heat pump. This grant has no income requirement — any homeowner can apply regardless of earnings.
Ideal for: First-time buyers who've purchased a property with an old boiler and want to future-proof their heating.
ECO4 Insulation Grants
Free cavity wall, loft, and solid wall insulation if you're on a low income or receive qualifying benefits. Many first-time buyers qualify, especially if the property has a poor EPC rating.
Warm Homes Local Grant
Your local council may offer up to £15,000 for insulation and £15,000 for heating upgrades. Availability varies by area — check if your council is participating.
Warm Homes Plan
The government's main energy efficiency programme covering insulation, heat pumps, and solar panels. Aimed at low-income households — particularly useful if you've stretched your budget on the purchase.
Why check now?
Energy efficiency improvements are most cost-effective when done early. As a new homeowner, getting these sorted quickly means:
- Lower bills from day one — Insulation alone can save £200–£400 per year
- A warmer, more comfortable home — Especially important in older properties
- Increased property value — A better EPC rating adds value to your home
- Future-proofed heating — Heat pumps prepare you for the shift away from gas
Tips for first-time buyers
Your solicitor should have provided the EPC as part of the purchase. If your property is rated D or below, you're more likely to qualify for grants. Our eligibility checker can look up your EPC automatically using your postcode.
Even if your household income is above the thresholds for other schemes, any homeowner can apply for up to £7,500 towards a heat pump. This is the most accessible grant for first-time buyers on moderate incomes.
ECO4 has been extended to 31 December 2026, but no successor scheme has been announced. If you qualify for benefits or have a low income, apply for free insulation through ECO4 while funding is still available.
Frequently asked questions
Can first-time buyers get free insulation?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for ECO4 (qualifying benefits or low income) or the Warm Homes Local Grant (income ≤£36,000, EPC D-G), you can get free insulation as a first-time buyer.
Which grant is easiest for first-time buyers to access?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is the most accessible — it has no income test and any homeowner can apply for up to £7,500 towards a heat pump, regardless of earnings.
Should I get an EPC before applying?
Your solicitor should have provided the EPC as part of the purchase. If your property is rated D or below, you're more likely to qualify for grants. Our checker can look up your EPC automatically.
Find First-Time Buyers in your area
See how First-Time Buyers works in your area, including local council schemes, eligibility criteria, and nearby installers.
Other available grants
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