Possibly, but probably not. Some low-income households can still get help with heating through ECO4, the government-backed Energy Company Obligation scheme, until it closes on 31 December 2026. Free boiler-only replacements are rare, though, and most homeowners pay for a new boiler themselves. This guide explains how ECO4 works, who qualifies, what replaces it and how to avoid "free boiler" scams. Scheme rules change, so always check current details on GOV.UK before you apply.
What is ECO4?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) requires larger energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for low-income and vulnerable households. ECO4, the fourth phase, started in 2022. It focuses on improving the whole home, typically through insulation and better heating, rather than simply swapping boilers, and work is carried out by approved installers who must be TrustMark registered.
Who qualifies for ECO4?
Eligibility depends on both the household and the property. In general:
- Someone in the household usually receives a qualifying means-tested benefit, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit
- Some households qualify through their local council instead, on income or health grounds, under a route known as ECO Flex
- The home usually needs a poor energy rating: typically EPC band D to G for homeowners, or E to G for private rented homes
- Even if you qualify, funding is not guaranteed, because suppliers and installers choose which jobs to take on
Can ECO4 replace just my boiler?
Rarely. Boiler replacements under ECO4 are limited, and they usually come as part of a wider package of improvements rather than on their own. Many websites advertising "free boilers" are lead generation sites that pass your details on to installers, not the scheme itself.
ECO4 closes on 31 December 2026
ECO4 was due to end in March 2026 but was extended to 31 December 2026, mainly to let suppliers finish existing work. It will not be replaced by another supplier scheme. Instead, the government's Warm Homes Plan, published in January 2026, moves support into government grants and low or zero-interest loans.
For low-income households in England, help is available through the Warm Homes: Local Grant, run by local councils, with a single national scheme for low-income homes planned from 2027/28. These schemes focus on insulation and low-carbon heating, so a like-for-like gas boiler replacement is unlikely to be covered. Your council's website is the best place to check what is available locally.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme: grants for heat pumps, not gas boilers
Despite its name, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme does not pay for gas boilers. It gives homeowners in England and Wales £7,500 off an air source or ground source heat pump fitted by an MCS-certified installer. Until 31 March 2027, homes switching from oil or LPG heating can get £9,000. If you are considering a heat pump, see our guide to combi vs system boilers, which explains why a cylinder-based system makes that switch easier.
Renting? Your landlord is responsible
If you rent privately, your landlord is legally responsible for keeping the heating and hot water working, including repairing or replacing the boiler. Council and housing association tenants should contact their landlord's repairs team. Landlords must also have gas appliances checked every year; we carry out landlord gas safety certificates across North and East London.
How to avoid "free boiler" scams
- Be wary of cold calls, texts or doorstep visits offering a free boiler
- Never pay an upfront fee to "secure" a grant
- Check that any installer is on the Gas Safe Register at gassaferegister.co.uk, and TrustMark registered for ECO work
- Check scheme details on GOV.UK or with your local council, not just the installer's website
If you do not qualify
Most households will pay for a new boiler, so it is worth knowing what a fair price looks like. Our guide to new boiler costs in London sets out typical prices, and our guide to the signs you need a new boiler will help you decide whether to replace now or repair for a while longer.
When you are ready, we offer free, fixed-price quotes for new boiler installation across North and East London, and can talk you through the payment options available on your chosen boiler. You can also get an instant quote online.