How to Get the £7,500 Heat Pump Grant: Step by Step
Everything you need to know about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, from eligibility to application.
The UK government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides £7,500 towards air source heat pumps or £7,500 for ground source heat pumps. Here's exactly how to claim it.
Quick Facts About the BUS Grant
Grant Amounts
- • Air source: £7,500
- • Ground source: £7,500
- • Biomass boilers: £5,000
Key Details
- • Available until March 2028
- • England & Wales only
- • No means testing
- • Applied by your installer
Am I Eligible?
You're eligible if you meet ALL of these criteria:
Must be the owner-occupier or landlord (social and private landlords eligible)
Scotland has a separate scheme (Home Energy Scotland grant)
Must replace gas, oil, LPG boiler, or electric storage heaters. Not available if already using a heat pump.
Must have an EPC dated within the last 10 years with no outstanding loft/cavity wall insulation recommendations (unless exempted)
The installation must be carried out by an MCS certified company
The EPC Requirement Explained
This is where most people get confused. Here's what you need to know:
If your EPC recommends loft or cavity wall insulation...
You must install that insulation BEFORE applying for the BUS grant, UNLESS:
- • You have a valid exemption (e.g., planning restrictions, building defects)
- • Your property was built after 2017 (already meets standards)
- • You can prove insulation is already installed (get EPC updated)
No EPC? Get one before starting the process. Costs £60-120 and takes 3-7 days.
Step-by-Step Process
Check Your Eligibility
Verify you meet all criteria above. Get or update your EPC if needed. Install any recommended insulation if required.
Find an MCS Certified Installer
Only MCS certified companies can apply for BUS grants. Get 2-3 quotes to compare prices.
→ Find MCS certified installers near youGet a Quote & Heat Loss Survey
The installer will conduct a full heat loss survey to size your system correctly. They'll provide a quote showing the total cost minus the £7,500 grant.
Installer Applies for the Grant
You don't apply yourself. Once you accept the quote, your installer applies to Ofgem on your behalf. They'll need your EPC details and property information.
Grant Redemption Code Issued
Usually within 48 hours, Ofgem issues a redemption code valid for 3 months. This reserves your grant.
Installation Completed
The installer completes the work, usually within 2-5 days. They must complete within the 3-month redemption window.
Grant Payment to Installer
After installation, the installer claims the £7,500 directly from Ofgem. You pay only the balance (installation cost minus £7,500).
How Much Will I Pay?
Example Costs After Grant
Air source heat pump (typical):
Installation: £14,000
Less grant: -£7,500
You pay: £6,500
Ground source heat pump (typical):
Installation: £28,000
Less grant: -£7,500
You pay: £20,500
Common Questions
Can I get multiple grants?
No. One grant per property. But landlords can get multiple grants for different properties they own.
Does it affect other grants?
You cannot combine BUS with ECO4 or Great British Insulation Scheme for the same heating system. But you can use those schemes for insulation separately.
What if I'm a landlord?
Both social and private landlords are eligible. You must provide proof of ownership and tenancy.
Will I need planning permission?
Usually no (permitted development). Exceptions: listed buildings, conservation areas, or flats. Your installer will advise.
How long does the whole process take?
From first quote to completed installation: typically 4-12 weeks, depending on installer availability and any required preparation (EPC, insulation).