Winter’s rolling around again, and with energy bills still biting, I keep hearing the same question from mates and family:
“Is there any help out there for insulation?”
If you’re living in a draughty house or your loft feels more like an ice rink than a heat barrier, you’re not alone. The good news is that government-backed insulation grants are still available in 2026, mainly through the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), with some flexibility left under ECO4.
That said, it’s not a free-for-all. These schemes are targeted, and not every home qualifies.
I’ve pulled this together after checking the latest updates from gov.uk and Ofgem, and from conversations with surveyors we regularly work with at Pronestcx. No fluff — just who qualifies, how the process actually works, and what you might realistically save.
Who Actually Qualifies for Free or Subsidized Insulation?
Insulation grants are aimed at homes that lose the most heat and households under pressure from high energy costs.
Here’s how eligibility generally breaks down in 2026.
Who Actually Qualifies for Free or Subsidized Insulation?
Insulation grants are aimed at homes that lose the most heat and households under pressure from high energy costs.
Here’s how eligibility generally breaks down in 2026
1. The “General Group” (Most Common) You qualify if your home meets all these:
- EPC rating D–G (E–G for private rentals)
- Council Tax bands A–D (England) / A–E (Scotland/Wales)
- Owned outright, mortgaged, or privately rented (landlord consent required)
Pensioner Priority: Age 70+ households often access loft insulation even if they miss some criteria.
2. Low-Income or Vulnerable Households (Better Support)
You’re more likely to qualify — and for multiple upgrades — if:
- You receive benefits such as:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Child or Working Tax Credit (income limits apply)
- Your household income is below £31,000, referred through your local council (ECO4 Flex)
- Someone in the home has a health condition worsened by cold living conditions
In these cases, funding may cover:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Room-in-roof insulation
- Heating controls or ventilation improvements
Homes off the gas grid may also qualify under newer local grant schemes, particularly where EPC ratings are D–G.
How to Apply for an Insulation Grant (Without the Stress)
The process is simpler than most people expect.
Step 1: Check Eligibility Online
Use the government’s GBIS checker or your energy supplier’s website. You’ll need your postcode, EPC band, and basic household details.
Step 2: Get an EPC (If You Don’t Have One)
An EPC typically costs £50–£100, though many installers include it free during the survey.
Step 3: Contact Your Energy Supplier or Council
Suppliers are obligated to help under GBIS. If you’re declined, your local council may still approve you through ECO4 Flex.
Step 4: Free Home Survey
A certified assessor checks:
- Loft depth and access
- Wall construction
- Existing insulation
- Ventilation and moisture risks
No pressure — you can walk away if it’s not right.
Step 5: Approval and Installation
If approved, installation usually happens within a few weeks, using TrustMark or PAS-certified installers.
How Much Can You Realistically Save?
Savings depend on your home and insulation type, but here’s what most UK households see:
| Insulation Type | Typical Cost | Grant Coverage | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loft insulation (top-up) | £800–£1,500 | 70–100% | £200–£400 |
| Cavity wall insulation | £500–£1,200 | 75–100% | £250–£500 |
| Spray foam loft insulation | £1,200–£2,500 | Partial (low-income) | £300–£600 |
| Room-in-roof insulation | £1,000–£2,000 | Selective | £150–£350 |
For a typical 3-bed semi, insulation upgrades can reduce energy bills by £450–£900 per year, especially when moving from EPC E to C.
Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- No EPC: You’ll hit a wall fast — get one early.
- Private renting: Landlord approval can delay things.
- Scheme deadlines: GBIS funding winds down in 2026.
- Unsuitable properties: No cavity walls, damp issues, or asbestos can rule out certain measures.
One recent survey One homeowner we spoke to missed out by one council tax band. Check yours first.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Applying?
If your home struggles to hold heat and your bills feel out of control, yes — absolutely. These schemes exist to fix the UK’s leakiest homes, and many people qualify without realizing it.
At Pronestcx, we help homeowners:
- Check grant eligibility
- Understand which insulation actually suits their home
- Arrange professional, compliant installation
Still confused about your eligibility or next steps? Speak to one of our supervisors for a free 15-minute call. We’ll review your EPC, postcode, and household details to confirm exactly what grants you qualify for and map out the fastest path forward.
