Low Carbon Heating Grant Pitfalls: Avoiding Costly Mistakes with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

Low Carbon Heating Grant Pitfalls: An Installer’s Guide to Avoiding Costly Mistakes with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme

Why Homeowners Lose Out on the Low Carbon Heating Grant (Boiler Upgrade Scheme)

As someone who’s worked in the heating industry for over a decade, I’ve seen countless homeowners miss out—or face unnecessary headaches—when trying to claim a low carbon heating grant through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). The rules seem simple, but in practice, the process is riddled with pitfalls that can derail your application or leave you with unexpected costs. This guide shares the real-world missteps I’ve seen, and how you can avoid them to secure your grant with minimal fuss.

The Most Common Pitfalls When Applying for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme

• Not Checking EPC Validity or Issues: Many homeowners are unaware that their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be valid (issued within the last ten years) and free from unresolved recommendations like loft or cavity wall insulation. If your EPC is out of date or flags missing insulation, your grant can be delayed or denied ^[1][2][5].
• Applying with the Wrong Heating System: The BUS is strictly for replacing fossil fuel systems—think gas, oil, LPG, or old electric heaters. If you’ve already upgraded to a heat pump or biomass boiler via another grant, you’re not eligible ^[1][5].
• Misunderstanding Property Eligibility: Only property owners can apply, whether it’s your home, rental, or business property. Private tenants need to involve their landlord. Social housing is generally excluded unless your provider supports the upgrade ^[1][3][5].
• DIY Installations or Unaccredited Fitters: To claim the grant, your installer must be MCS-certified and registered with Ofgem for the BUS. DIY jobs or using a non-accredited company will leave you footing the full bill ^[4].
• Choosing the Wrong Technology: The BUS covers air source and ground source heat pumps, and in specific rural, off-gas scenarios, certain biomass boilers. Don’t expect funding for standard gas boilers or unapproved kit ^[1][5].

Step-by-Step: Navigating the BUS Without Falling Into Traps

1. Confirm Ownership and Eligibility
   • Own your property (home, business, or rental).
   • Check that your current heating system is fossil fuel-based.
2. Check Your EPC
   • Find your EPC online or order a new one if it’s over 10 years old.
   • Resolve any insulation recommendations—grants may be available for this, too.
3. Choose the Right Installer
   • Use an MCS-certified installer registered for the BUS.
   • Get a written quote and discuss timelines for application and installation.
4. Agree on Technology
   • Decide between air source heat pump, ground source heat pump, or eligible biomass boiler (rural, off-gas only).
5. Let Your Installer Apply
   • Your installer applies for the grant on your behalf. You’ll need to provide consent and property details.
6. Installation and Payment
   • Once approved, the installer deducts the grant from your invoice. You pay the remaining balance.

FAQs: Pitfalls & Real-World Solutions for the Low Carbon Heating Grant

• What happens if my EPC is out of date?
  If your EPC is older than ten years, you’ll need to order a new one before your installer can apply for the BUS ^[1][2].
• Can I get the BUS for a new build?
  No, the scheme is only for existing properties that have previously used fossil fuel heating ^[1][5].
• Are all installers BUS-accredited?
  No—only MCS-certified installers registered with Ofgem can process BUS applications. Always check credentials ^[4].
• Can I combine BUS with other grants?
  Generally, you can’t receive BUS if you’ve already had public funding for a heat pump or biomass boiler under schemes like ECO4 ^[5].
• What’s the biggest delay homeowners face?
  Unresolved EPC recommendations (like missing insulation) are by far the most common reason for application delays.

Conclusion: Get the Grant—Skip the Headaches

Securing a low carbon heating grant through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a real opportunity to future-proof your home and cut your energy bills—but only if you avoid the common pitfalls. In my experience, the difference between a smooth, subsidised install and months of frustration comes down to preparation and using an accredited, knowledgeable installer. At applyfreeboiler.co.uk, our team handles the eligibility checks, paperwork, and installation end-to-end—so you can focus on enjoying your warm, efficient home.