UK government grants for home improvements [2025 guide]

Everyone deserves a warm home. Learn what government help is available when improvements are needed.



Have you taken out a loan for home improvements but are now struggling to pay? The SMI scheme could help with paying the interest.

The SMI is a loan you must pay back with interest when you have enough equity – for example, if you sell your home. To check the full terms and conditions and eligibility criteria, see GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/support-for-mortgage-interest 

Energy Company Obligation scheme phase 4 (ECO4)

Began in 2022 and is set to end in March 2026

This government scheme is funded by the major UK energy companies to improve the least energy-efficient homes and reduce carbon emissions with renewable energies.

This can include upgrading boilers and heating systems, providing insulation and heat pumps, and even installing solar panels.

Eligibility depends on the benefits you're claiming and your home's EPC rating. You can learn more on GOV.UK and apply from there: https://www.gov.uk/energy-company-obligation

Note: renters will need their landlord's permission for any work done.

Local Authority Flexibility scheme (LA FLEX)

An add-on to ECO4

This is for anyone:

• With a low income
• Who lives in a property that qualifies for ECO4
• But is not claiming any qualifying benefits

You will need to contact your local authority (council) directly and ask to be assessed for the scheme.

Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

Began in April 2022 and is set to continue until March 2028

This government grant encourages replacing fossil fuel heating systems (oil, gas, electric or LPG) with low-carbon heating systems. That means heat pumps or, in specific circumstances, a biomass boiler.

The scheme will pay part of the cost of installation for you. However, you should first check if your property is eligible via GOV.UK, as there are some exclusions: https://www.gov.uk/apply-boiler-upgrade-scheme

Next, you'll need quotes for the work from MCS-certified installers. Once you accept a quote, the installer must apply for the grant for you on the Ofgem website. The amount granted will be taken off the cost, and you'll pay the rest.

BUS still requires an investment from you, but the benefit should be a warmer home with much lower energy bills.

Warm Homes: Local Grant

Began in April 2025 and is set to run for at least three years

Local authorities in England have been allocated funding by the government's Warm Homes Plan. This aims to bring five million homes to an energy-efficient grade within five years. Their agenda is to target fuel poverty and give people warmer homes with less energy costs.

The Local Grant covers properties that are privately owned – either by the occupant or a landlord – with an EPC grade of D or below. It will fully fund any allocated improvements, which can include insulation, heat pumps, smart controls and solar panels. 

The eligibility for this one is quite broad, so it's definitely worth checking if you can apply: https://www.gov.uk/apply-warm-homes-local-grant

Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund

Began in April 2025 and is set to run for at least three years

This is part of the Warm Homes Plan for social housing and covers properties with an EPC grade of C and below. As with the Local Grant, its aim is to provide warmer, more energy-efficient homes.

Upgrades available include insulation, heat pumps, solar panels and double glazing. Landlords are expected to pay 50% of the cost.

Contact your social housing company if you think your home qualifies. Here's a list of eligible social housing companies.

Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG)

Introduced in 1989 and does not have a set end date

This grant is to help individuals with disabilities make essential changes to their homes so they can get around more easily and manage everyday tasks.

Adaptations to your home could include:

• Wider doorways
• Ramps
• Grab rails
• A stairlift
• A walk-in shower or wet room
• Improved access to your garden
• An extension to make a downstairs bedroom
• A more suitable heating system 
• Adapted controls for heating and lighting 

Eligibility depends on your savings and income – unless the grant is for a child under 18. See the criteria and learn how to apply at GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants

Another option: Calder Windows' free triple-glazing upgrade 

Investing in our A++ triple-glazed windows is an extremely effective way to save on energy costs and add value to your home. 

And now, we're thrilled to be able to offer our customers a free upgrade to triple glazing when they place an order for double glazing.

With our revolutionary triple-glazed units, you could see a 40% improvement in the thermal efficiency of your existing windows, leading to huge savings on heating costs.

It would make a wise investment at any time – and with our 0% finance options, they're more affordable than you might expect. Right now, however, we're offering this huge upgrade at no extra cost.

To get started, simply get in touch for a free quote. But hurry – the offer won't last forever.

Calder Windows is a door and window supplier based in West Yorkshire. We've been supplying and fitting high-quality windows and doors for more than 30 years.