FAQs on ECO4
Asking Questions So You Don’t Have To
When it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency, few government initiatives have as much potential as ECO4. Backed by energy suppliers, this nationwide scheme helps homeowners, landlords, and tenants reduce their energy bills while creating warmer, greener homes.
To help you make sense of the scheme, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about ECO4 funding — who it’s for, what it covers, and how to get started.
What's in the article?
- Who can apply for ECO4 funding?
- Does ECO4 funding need to be repaid?
- Can landlords apply for ECO4 funding?
- How long does the ECO4 scheme last?
What is the ECO4 scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government-backed initiative that funds energy efficiency improvements in UK homes. It’s part of the government’s wider effort to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The scheme is financed by major energy suppliers and focuses on installing energy-saving measures such as insulation, heating system upgrades, and renewable technologies. By reducing the amount of energy a home needs to heat or power itself, ECO4 helps households lower their energy bills while cutting harmful emissions.
Who can apply for ECO4 funding?
ECO4 funding is designed to be inclusive, with multiple routes for eligibility. You could qualify if:
EPC Rating
Benefits
Income
Each of these routes aims to ensure that the people who most need support can access energy-saving upgrades. Even if you don’t claim benefits, you might still qualify under your local council’s flexible eligibility criteria — which means it’s always worth checking.
What type of improvements can be funded?
ECO4 covers a wide range of home improvements, including:
- Cavity wall, loft, and underfloor insulation
- Air source heat pumps and heating controls
- Solar PV panels
- Room-in-roof insulation and external wall insulation
- First-time central heating systems
These measures are designed to work together to make your home more energy-efficient. For example, insulation keeps heat from escaping, while modern heating controls ensure warmth is used effectively. Solar panels, on the other hand, reduce dependency on the grid and generate renewable energy. Together, these upgrades can significantly improve your property’s EPC rating and comfort level.
Does ECO4 funding need to be repaid?
No — ECO4 funding is completely free. The scheme is funded by major energy suppliers who are required to contribute toward national carbon reduction targets. Homeowners and landlords do not need to repay the cost of the work, and there are no hidden fees.
Once your property has been approved, all work is carried out by accredited installers, ensuring compliance with safety and energy standards. This makes ECO4 one of the most accessible and beneficial government-backed schemes for improving home efficiency at no cost to the property owner.
Can landlords apply for ECO4 funding?
Yes, absolutely. ECO4 presents an excellent opportunity for landlords to upgrade their properties and meet legal EPC requirements without paying out of pocket.
Landlords are legally required to ensure their rental properties achieve at least an EPC rating of E or above. With ECO4, landlords can improve their energy performance by installing measures such as insulation or efficient heating systems. This not only keeps tenants comfortable but also boosts the property’s long-term value and rental appeal.
ECO4 also helps landlords avoid potential fines for non-compliance while contributing to the UK’s broader carbon reduction goals.
How long does the application process take?
The ECO4 process is straightforward and designed to minimise disruption. Typically, it includes three main steps:
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Eligibility check: Your details are assessed against the scheme’s criteria to confirm qualification.
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Free property survey: An accredited installer inspects your property to determine which improvements will have the biggest impact.
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Installation: Approved measures are scheduled and installed by certified professionals.
The whole process generally takes a few weeks from the initial enquiry to completion, depending on your location, property type, and the number of upgrades required.
How long does the ECO4 scheme last?
The ECO4 scheme launched in April 2022 and is currently set to run until March 2026. However, funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning the sooner you apply, the better your chances of securing free upgrades.
ECO4 replaces the previous ECO3 scheme and represents the final phase of the government’s long-running Energy Company Obligation initiative. The focus of ECO4 is on long-term, whole-home energy efficiency rather than one-off installations.
How can I find out if I qualify?
Finding out if your home qualifies for ECO4 funding is easy with Cucumber Eco. Our team handles everything — from the eligibility check to the installation coordination — so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.
Simply visit our website and complete a quick online form. We’ll assess your property’s eligibility, arrange a free survey if you qualify, and help you access government funding for your upgrades.
Final Thoughts
ECO4 is one of the most impactful energy-efficiency schemes in the UK, designed to make homes warmer, greener, and more affordable to run. Yet, many eligible households still don’t know they qualify.
Whether you’re a landlord wanting to meet EPC standards or a homeowner looking to cut bills and carbon emissions, ECO4 offers a practical, cost-free solution.
At Cucumber Eco, we simplify the process — helping you access funding, coordinate your installation, and transform your property into a more sustainable home.
