Boiler Upgrade Scheme Grant Eligibility Guide

Before you start

First, check that your property meets the eligibility rules for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). You should also check your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) at gov.uk/find-energy-certificate.

If your property has a valid EPC, your heat pump installer can use the EPC reference number when submitting your application. However, if your EPC has expired or you do not have one, the scheme may accept alternative evidence in some circumstances.

Step 1: Get at least three heat pump quotes

Start by getting quotes from at least three MCS-certified heat pump installers. Compare the installation price, proposed heat pump system, equipment, warranties and exactly what each quote includes.

To qualify for Boiler Upgrade Scheme funding, an eligible MCS-certified installer must install and commission the heat pump. You can check an installer’s certification through MCS before choosing who to use.

Step 2: Choose your installer and confirm the BUS grant

Once you have compared your options, choose your preferred installer. Before agreeing to the work, make sure the quote clearly shows the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant as a deduction from the installation price.

Check the final amount you will pay after the grant. Also, make sure you understand which installation costs the quote includes and whether you need to pay for any additional work.

Step 3: Your installer applies for the BUS voucher

Your installer handles the Boiler Upgrade Scheme application, so you do not normally need to apply yourself.

The installer submits the application to Ofgem and provides the required information about your property and proposed heat pump installation. Ofgem will then contact you to confirm that you consent to the application. They may also ask you to confirm some eligibility details.

Step 4: Wait for the BUS voucher

Do not rush into installation. Your installer should wait until Ofgem issues the BUS voucher before commissioning the heat pump.

Once the voucher arrives, your installer can complete the installation within the scheme’s required timeframe. Waiting for the voucher helps ensure the project meets the scheme rules.

Step 5: Your installer redeems the voucher

After the installer completes and commissions your heat pump, they submit the required information to Ofgem to redeem the voucher.

You do not receive the grant as a separate cash payment. Instead, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant comes off your installation bill, reducing the amount you need to pay to the installer.

Keep your BUS paperwork

Finally, keep your quotes, EPC details, BUS correspondence, installation documents and warranties. These records can help if you need to check your grant, resolve an issue with the installer or refer back to your heat pump installation later.