You've heard about the Warm Homes Plan and want to know if you're eligible. This guide gives you a clear, no-nonsense breakdown. It's not complicated — but there are two different routes and the rules vary.
Eligible homes can get fully funded solar panel installation through the scheme.
The two eligibility routes
| Route | Income test | EPC test | What you can get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm Homes Local Grant (WH:LG) | Gross household income ≤£36,000 | EPC D, E, F or G | Up to £30,000 of fully funded upgrades |
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) | None — open to all homeowners | None (removed 2025) | £7,500 toward an air source heat pump (£9,000 for oil/LPG homes from July 2026) |
Warm Homes Local Grant — the details
What counts as household income?
Gross household income means the combined pre-tax income of all adults living in the property — wages, self-employment, pensions and taxable benefits all count. In Lancashire, no documentation is required for incomes below £36,000: you declare it on the application form.
What EPC rating do you need?
Your property must have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. If your property is EPC C or above, it doesn't qualify for the grant. Check the free national register at epcregister.com.
What if my EPC is C but I want upgrades?
You can still qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grant (no EPC condition). For solar panels, you can purchase a system at 0% VAT. See how to improve your EPC rating.
Qualifying on benefits
Households receiving any of the following benefits may qualify for the WH:LG regardless of income:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance
- Child Benefit (subject to income cap — check at application)
A simple eligibility checklist
| Question | Yes → | No → |
|---|---|---|
| Is your gross household income at or below £36,000? | May qualify for WH:LG | Check BUS |
| Is your EPC rating D, E, F or G? | Continue WH:LG check | Check BUS (no EPC condition) |
| Do you own your home or are you a private tenant? | Eligible to apply | Social renters: contact your council |
| Are you a homeowner wanting a heat pump? | BUS: £7,500 grant regardless of income (£9,000 oil/LPG from July 2026) | — |
Not sure if you qualify?
Call Alliant Energy on 0800 088 4286 for a free eligibility check — no obligation.
Can tenants apply? What about landlords?
Yes — private renters can apply for the Warm Homes Local Grant, but you need your landlord's written permission. Landlords can — and in many cases should — apply on behalf of their rental properties: from 2028, rental properties in England will need to meet EPC C to remain lettable. See our landlords guide.
How to check your EPC rating for free
- Go to epcregister.com
- Enter your postcode and select your property
- Your current EPC rating is shown, along with the date of assessment
- If your EPC is older than 10 years, you may need a new assessment (£80–£120)
Frequently asked questions
What is the income limit for the Warm Homes Plan?
The Warm Homes Local Grant requires a gross household income at or below £36,000 per year. In Lancashire, no documentation is required — you self-declare at application. There is no income limit for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
What EPC rating do I need for the Warm Homes Plan?
For the Warm Homes Local Grant, you need an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. Properties rated C or above don't qualify for this grant. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme has no EPC condition.
Can I get the Warm Homes Plan if I rent my home?
Yes. Private tenants can apply for the Warm Homes Local Grant with their landlord's written permission. Your landlord may also apply directly on your behalf.
I'm on Universal Credit — do I automatically qualify?
Receiving Universal Credit is a strong indicator of eligibility. You also need to pass the EPC test (D–G). If both criteria are met, you should qualify for the WH:LG.
How do I find my EPC rating?
Check the free national register at epcregister.com. If your certificate is more than 10 years old, you may need a new assessment before applying.
Related Warm Homes Plan guides
