ECO4 Application Process Simplified

Applying for ECO4 grants might seem daunting, but when you work with UGRANT, the process becomes straightforward. We connect you with approved installers who manage the entire application, from initial assessment to final installation—all at no cost to you.

This guide walks you through each stage of the ECO4 application process, explaining what happens, who does what, and how long everything takes.

1. Initial Eligibility Check with UGRANT

The first step is checking whether you're likely to qualify for ECO4 funding. This is where UGRANT comes in—we've streamlined this process to take just a few minutes.

What Happens:

Complete our quick online eligibility checker
Provide basic information about your property and household
Receive instant feedback on your likely eligibility
Get matched with approved installers in your area

Unlike applying directly to energy companies, UGRANT pre-screens your application and connects you with installers who specialize in your property type and location. This significantly increases your chances of approval.

2. Installer Contact and Documentation

Once we've matched you with an approved installer, they'll contact you within 24-48 hours to verify your details and arrange the next steps.

Documents You'll Need:

Proof of benefits (if applicable): recent award letters or bank statements
Council Tax statement or utility bill showing your address
Photo ID for the homeowner or tenant
Landlord permission letter (for tenants only)

Don't worry if you don't have everything immediately—installers understand that gathering documents takes time, and they'll guide you through exactly what's needed.

Timeline: Document gathering typically takes 3-7 days, depending on how quickly you can provide the required paperwork.

3. Home Survey and Assessment

Before any work can begin, a qualified surveyor will visit your property to assess what improvements are needed and confirm your eligibility.

What the Survey Covers:

Current insulation levels in loft, walls, and floors
Heating system efficiency and condition
Ventilation and damp issues
Property structure and suitability for improvements
EPC rating verification or new EPC arrangement

The survey usually takes 1-2 hours and is completely free. The surveyor will take photos, measurements, and notes to create a detailed report.

Timeline: Surveys are typically scheduled within 1-2 weeks of document submission, and you'll receive the report within 3-5 days.

4. Formal Application Submission

Once the survey is complete, your installer will submit the formal ECO4 application to the relevant energy company on your behalf. This is where their expertise really matters.

The Installer Handles:

Preparing technical specifications for the improvements
Calculating projected energy savings
Submitting all documentation to the energy supplier
Liaising with the supplier's compliance team
Addressing any queries or additional requirements

You don't need to contact energy companies yourself—the installer acts as your representative throughout this process.

Timeline: Application processing takes 2-4 weeks. During this time, the installer will keep you updated on progress.

5. Installation and Completion

Once your application is approved, the installation can be scheduled. This is the exciting part where your home improvements actually happen.

Installation Process:

Pre-installation call: Installer confirms dates and what to expect
Installation day: Work is completed by qualified professionals
Quality checks: Thorough inspection to ensure standards are met
Documentation: You receive certificates and warranty information
Post-installation support: Follow-up to ensure everything works properly

Installation time varies depending on the improvements:

Loft insulation: 1 day
Cavity wall insulation: 1-2 days
External wall insulation: 1-2 weeks
Boiler replacement: 1-2 days

After installation, you'll receive a new EPC certificate showing your improved energy rating, along with guarantees for all work completed.

6. Why Use UGRANT for Your ECO4 Application

While you can apply for ECO4 directly through energy companies, using UGRANT offers several advantages:

UGRANT Benefits:

Pre-screening: We check eligibility before connecting you with installers
Installer network: Access to vetted, approved professionals across the UK
No energy company calls: Avoid navigating multiple suppliers' processes
Expert guidance: Installers know exactly what documentation and information is needed
Higher success rate: Professional applications have better approval rates
Single point of contact: One installer manages your entire journey

Most importantly, UGRANT and approved installers don't charge fees—the service is funded through the ECO4 scheme itself, making professional support accessible to everyone.

7. Complete Timeline Overview

Here's what to expect from start to finish when you apply through UGRANT:

Typical ECO4 Timeline:

Week 1: UGRANT eligibility check and installer matching

Week 2: Initial contact, document gathering

Week 3-4: Home survey and report preparation

Week 5-8: Application submission and approval process

Week 9-10: Installation scheduled and completed

Total time: 8-12 weeks from initial check to completion

This timeline can vary based on installer availability, complexity of improvements, and how quickly documentation is provided. Some straightforward applications move faster, while complex projects involving multiple improvements may take longer.