Can Landlords Get Boiler Upgrade Scheme Funding?

Yes. Private landlords can use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for a rented property in England or Wales. The grant is tied to the property owner, so the landlord — not the tenant — is the one whose installer applies. Social housing is not eligible.

How it works for a rental property

The process is the same as for an owner-occupier:

1. The property needs to meet the main criteria — an existing building, replacing fossil fuel or electric heating, and no previous public funding for low carbon heating at the address.
2. An MCS-certified installer surveys the property, designs the system and applies for the voucher.
3. The grant is deducted from the installation price.

Current values and conditions are on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme page. Rural rentals heated by oil or LPG may qualify for enhanced off-gas support.

Things landlords should plan for

• Access and disruption. A heat pump installation takes several days; agree timings with your tenant early.
• Hot water. Most systems need a hot water cylinder, which affects space in smaller rentals.
• Explaining the controls. Heat pumps run differently from boilers. A good handover for the tenant avoids complaints about “lukewarm” radiators.

What can a tenant do?

A tenant cannot apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for the home they rent. They can raise it with their landlord. Separately, privately rented homes with poor energy ratings may be eligible for:

• the Warm Homes: Local Grant in England, where the tenant household meets the income or benefits criteria — landlords contribute from their second property; and
• ECO4, with the landlord’s permission, until it closes at the end of 2026.

The standards coming for rented homes

The government has confirmed that private rented homes in England and Wales will be expected to reach EPC band C by 1 October 2030, with a cost cap per property. It still needs legislation. Our Warm Homes Plan explainer separates what is confirmed from what is still to come.