How do solar panel grant eligibility rules apply to park homes and static caravans in the UK?

If you live in a park home or static caravan and want to benefit from solar panel grants, you’re not alone in wondering how the rules apply to your unique situation. The eligibility criteria for government-backed schemes like ECO4 and LA Flex can seem daunting, especially for non-traditional properties. This guide will break down exactly what you need to know, with clear steps and practical advice tailored for park home and static caravan residents.

• Understand the specific eligibility hurdles for park homes and static caravans—and why they differ from standard houses.
• Step-by-step guidance on checking if your property and household qualify for solar panel grants.
• Expert tips to maximise your chances and avoid common pitfalls unique to park home and static caravan applications.

Understanding the Core of Solar Panel Grant Eligibility for Park Homes and Static Caravans

Solar panel grants in the UK, such as those offered under the ECO4 and LA Flex schemes, are designed to help households reduce energy bills and carbon emissions by supporting the installation of renewable technologies. However, park homes and static caravans face unique eligibility challenges compared to traditional brick-built houses.

Most grant schemes focus on properties with a permanent address and a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Park homes and static caravans often lack a standard EPC, which can complicate eligibility. Additionally, some schemes may restrict funding to properties that are considered permanent dwellings, excluding holiday lets or non-residential units. The rationale is to ensure that grant funding delivers the greatest long-term benefit to households most at risk of fuel poverty and energy inefficiency [3][4].

It’s also important to note that while planning permission is rarely required for solar panels on most UK homes, park homes and static caravans may have site-specific restrictions or require site owner consent, especially if the home is not owned outright [1][2][5].

A Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Eligibility

1. Confirm Your Property Type and Tenure
   Grants typically apply to permanent residential park homes and static caravans used as your main home. Holiday lets or temporary residences are usually excluded. You must have permission from the site owner if you do not own the pitch outright [3][4].
2. Check for a Valid EPC
   Most schemes require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of D, E, F, or G. Park homes and static caravans may not have a standard EPC, but some assessors can provide a Park Home EPC. If your property lacks an EPC, contact a qualified assessor to arrange one [3][4].
3. Review Income and Benefit Criteria
   ECO4 and LA Flex schemes prioritise households on certain means-tested benefits (e.g., Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support). For LA Flex, some councils allow applications from households with a total income below £31,000, even if you do not receive benefits [3][4].
4. Ownership or Tenancy Status
   Both homeowners and private tenants can apply, but tenants will need written permission from the property or site owner. Social housing tenants are generally not eligible for solar panel grants under ECO4 [3][4].
5. Check Local Council Participation
   LA Flex eligibility varies by council. Some local authorities actively support park home and static caravan residents, while others do not. Contact your council or use a professional grant advisor to check local rules [3][4].

The Typical Application Journey Explained

1. Initial Application & Eligibility Check
   Complete a quick online application—such as at applyfreeboiler.co.uk/apply—to check your eligibility. You’ll need to provide details about your property, household income, and benefits status [3][4].
2. Free Home Survey & Assessment
   If you appear eligible, a qualified assessor will arrange a free survey to confirm your property’s suitability and EPC rating. For park homes and static caravans, the assessor will check site permissions and any unique installation requirements [3][4].
3. Installation of Measures
   Once approved, a TrustMark-accredited installer will fit your solar panels. The process is typically completed within a day, with minimal disruption [3][4].

A Crucial Trust Signal: How to Verify Your Installer and Avoid Scams

Only TrustMark-accredited installers are authorised to carry out grant-funded solar panel installations. Always:

• Ask for the installer's TrustMark registration number and check it on the TrustMark website.
• Never pay upfront fees for the grant application itself—legitimate grants do not require payment to apply.
• Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics or being rushed to sign paperwork on the spot.
• Insist on written confirmation of grant approval before any work begins.

If in doubt, seek advice from a reputable grant advisor or use the official application checker at applyfreeboiler.co.uk/apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can park homes and static caravans get solar panel grants?
  Yes, but eligibility is stricter than for standard houses. You must use the property as your main home, have a valid EPC, and meet income or benefit criteria [3][4].
• Do I need planning permission for solar panels on a park home?
  Usually not, but some sites have their own rules. Always check with your site owner or local council before proceeding [1][2][5].
• What if my static caravan doesn’t have an EPC?
  You may need a specialist Park Home EPC assessment. Some grant providers can arrange this as part of the application process [3][4].
• Can private tenants in park homes apply for solar panel grants?
  Yes, but you’ll need written permission from the property or site owner [3][4].
• How long does the grant process take?
  From application to installation, the process typically takes 2–6 weeks, depending on survey availability and scheme demand [3][4].

Conclusion and Your Next Step

Solar panel grant eligibility for park homes and static caravans is possible, but the rules are more complex than for standard homes. By understanding the unique requirements and following the steps above, you can maximise your chances of success. Ready to check your eligibility? Use our free, no-obligation online checker at applyfreeboiler.co.uk/apply and get a professional assessment today.

Full Citations and Resources

1. Do You Need Planning Permission For Solar Panels? (Guide) – GreenMatch
2. Solar Farm Planning Permission: The Ultimate Guide – Lumify Energy
3. Solar panel grants and funding in the UK 2025 | FMB
4. Ultimate Guide To Solar Power Grants in the UK – Jackery
5. Solar Panel Planning Permissions [UK 2025] – Capture Energy