GBIS v2.0 just dropped: August 2025 changes decoded into quick homeowner wins (with real cases eligibility checker and application tips)

The Complete Breakdown: What’s New in GBIS v2.0?

Professional Gas Safe engineer installing energy-efficient boiler through government ECO4 scheme

August 2025 brings GBIS v2.0—a significant mid-scheme update that sharpens eligibility, expands measures, and aims for faster, fairer delivery. Here’s what every UK homeowner and tenant needs to know:

• Smart thermostats are now eligible from 14 November 2024, offering more control and savings for qualifying homes^[3].
• Eligibility split: The scheme continues to serve both the general group (mainly by council tax band and EPC rating) and the low-income group (means-tested benefits or income under £31,000)^[2][5].
• Primary insulation measures include cavity wall, loft, solid wall, roof, floor, park home, and room-in-roof insulation. Low-income households may also access secondary measures like TRVs and boiler controls, but only if a primary measure is installed first^[2][3].
• Flexibility for suppliers: Up to 80% of the low-income minimum requirement can be met via GBIS Flex, using supplier-held energy debt data rather than local authority evidence^[3].
• Targeting fuel poverty: At least 20% of each supplier’s annual target must go to low-income households, ensuring support for those most in need^[3].
• Private renters: Still eligible, but must have landlord consent. PRS properties must meet EPC and council tax criteria^[5].
• One measure per property: Most general group applicants can only receive one type of insulation per property (e.g., cavity wall or loft, not both)^[5].

For a full list of eligible measures and the latest guidance, see the official Ofgem GBIS v2.0 guidance.^[3]

Want to see if you qualify? Use our Eligibility checker or Check your eligibility and apply today.

Real Stories from the Field: How GBIS Works in Practice

Modern condensing boiler technology providing significant energy bill savings for UK households

Nothing beats real-life experience. Here are two anonymised case studies based on genuine UK scenarios, plus a mini-quote from an installer’s perspective.

Case Study 1: Single Parent in Manchester, 1930s Semi, EPC E

• Persona & property: Sarah, single parent, two children, owns a 1930s semi-detached home (EPC E).
• Route: GBIS low-income group (receives Universal Credit). Provided benefit evidence and EPC certificate.
• Timeline: Applied online (Eligibility checker), phone call from installer within 10 days, survey at 3 weeks, install at 7 weeks.
• Installer interaction: Sarah praised the surveyor’s clarity: “He explained every step and what to expect on the day.”
• Before/After: Pre-install EPC E, post-install EPC D (loft insulation + smart thermostat). Estimated bill saving: £240/year [CITATION NEEDED].
• Obstacles: Needed to provide updated benefit letter; installer guided her through uploading via portal.
• Quote: “I thought it’d be loads of paperwork, but it was mostly handled for me. The house feels warmer already.”

Case Study 2: Retired Couple, Cornwall, 1970s Bungalow, EPC F

• Persona & property: John & Mary, retired, fixed income, own a 1970s bungalow (EPC F).
• Route: General eligibility group (council tax band B, EPC F). No benefits, but met council tax and EPC criteria.
• Timeline: Applied via energy supplier, survey after 2 weeks, install at 6 weeks.
• Installer interaction: “Installer was upfront about the one-measure rule—we chose cavity wall insulation for the biggest impact.”
• Before/After: Pre-install EPC F, post-install EPC E. Estimated bill saving: £180/year [CITATION NEEDED].
• Obstacles: Needed to provide proof of council tax band; local council sent confirmation letter.
• Quote: “We didn’t realise we’d need to pick just one measure, but the advice was spot on for our home.”

Installer/Assessor Perspective

“The most common pitfall? Applicants not knowing their EPC or council tax band. Always check these before applying—it speeds up everything.”

Ready to take your first step? Visit Check your eligibility and apply or see How the scheme works for a full walkthrough.

The Money Trail: Costs & Savings Explained

Smart heating controls and monitoring system included with ECO4 boiler grant installations

Let’s talk numbers. GBIS v2.0 is designed to make insulation affordable—sometimes free, sometimes with a small contribution. Here’s how the finances stack up:

• General group: May need to pay part of the cost, especially for higher-value measures. You’ll always be told upfront if a contribution is needed^[5].
• Low-income group: Most measures are fully funded, especially if you receive means-tested benefits or have a household income under £31,000^[2][5].
• Typical savings: Cavity wall insulation can save £180–£300/year; loft insulation £150–£250/year, depending on property size and energy use [CITATION NEEDED].
• Smart thermostats: New for 2025, these can trim bills by an extra 5–10% for some households^[3].
• One-measure rule: Most general group applicants can only get one insulation upgrade per property under GBIS^[5].

All works must be delivered by TrustMark-registered installers, ensuring quality and compliance. Want to see if you’ll need to contribute? Use our Eligibility checker for a tailored estimate.

Your Eligibility Roadmap: Quick Checker & Checklist

Not sure if you qualify? Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding GBIS v2.0 eligibility in 2025:

1. Check your EPC rating: Most homes with EPC D–G are eligible. Find your EPC at the official government portal or ask your landlord.
2. Confirm your council tax band: England (A–D), Scotland/Wales (A–E). Social housing and PRS also eligible if other criteria met^[2][5].
3. Assess your income: If your total household income is under £31,000 or you receive means-tested benefits, you may qualify for the low-income group^[5].
4. Check landlord consent (if renting): You’ll need written permission before works can start^[5].
5. Gather documents: EPC, council tax bill, benefit evidence, proof of income, landlord consent (if needed).
6. Apply: Use our Eligibility checker or Check your eligibility and apply for a fast assessment.

Still unsure? See How the scheme works for a detailed walkthrough or contact our team for tailored advice.

FAQ: Scenario-Based Questions

Can I get GBIS if I’m a private renter with an EPC E?

Do I need to be on benefits to qualify?

How quickly can I get insulation installed?

Can I combine GBIS with ECO4 or BUS?

What if my EPC is D but my council tax band is E?

Is there a cap on how many households can benefit?

What documents do I need?

Can I get both cavity wall and loft insulation?

Will I have to pay anything?

How do I check my eligibility?

Action Next Steps

GBIS v2.0 is your chance to make your home warmer, cut bills, and boost your EPC—often with little or no upfront cost. Start by checking your EPC and council tax band, gather your documents, and use our Eligibility checker or Check your eligibility and apply to get your application moving. If you’re unsure, our team is here to help you navigate every step. Don’t miss out—funding is limited and demand is high.

Full Citations and Resources

1. Source 1: Ofgem GBIS v2.0 YouTube Overview
2. Source 2: Ofgem GBIS Delivery Guidance v2.0 (August 2025)
3. Source 3: GBIS Release Data (June 2025)
4. Source 4: Ofgem Supplier Administration Guidance
5. Source 5: Domestic NEED 2025 Annex A