How Long Does a Boiler Grant Take in the UK?

Are you thinking about applying for a Boiler Grant in the UK? You’re not alone. Many households are turning to government-supported grants to help replace old, inefficient boilers. 

These grants can help reduce heating bills and improve energy efficiency. But one of the most common questions people ask is: “How long does a Boiler Grant take?”

In this blog, we’ll explore the full process from application to installation. You’ll learn what affects the timeline and how you can speed things up. 

Whether you’re just starting out or waiting for approval, this guide will help you understand what to expect.

What Is a Boiler Grant?

A Boiler Grant is part of the UK government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme. This program helps low-income households and vulnerable individuals get a new, energy-efficient boiler for free or at a reduced cost. The goal is to lower carbon emissions and fight fuel poverty.

The grant is usually funded by big energy companies. But you apply through a registered installer or grant provider.

Why Is a Boiler Grant Important?

Old boilers waste energy. They take more time and fuel to heat your home. A new, A-rated boiler can save you hundreds of pounds each year. With a Boiler Grant, you don’t have to pay the full price out of pocket. This can be life-changing for families on a tight budget.

Who Can Apply for a Boiler Grant?

Not everyone can get a Boiler Grant. You need to meet certain rules:

• You must own your home or have permission from your landlord.
• Your current boiler must be old, broken, or very inefficient.
• You or someone in your home must receive certain benefits like:
  • Universal Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Pension Credit
  • Income-related benefits

Some grants are also open to low-income households who don’t get benefits but live in energy-inefficient homes. A home energy assessment will usually decide this.

Step-by-Step Timeline of a Boiler Grant

Now, let’s talk about how long the Boiler Grant process actually takes. Each stage has a role in the timeline. On average, the full process can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks.

Let’s break this down in simple steps:

1. Initial Application (1 to 3 Days)

The first step is filling out an application online or through a grant provider. This includes basic details like your name, address, income, and the age of your current boiler.

Many websites offer a quick check to see if you qualify. This takes just a few minutes. If you pass, the provider will contact you within 24 to 72 hours.

Tip: Make sure you provide correct details and answer all questions. Any mistakes can delay your application.

2. Eligibility Check (3 to 7 Days)

After your initial form, the provider checks if you meet the rules for the grant. They may ask for proof of benefits or income. If you don’t respond quickly, it will delay the process.

If everything checks out, they’ll move to the next stage: booking a home survey.

3. Home Survey (1 to 2 Weeks)

The provider will send someone to your home to carry out a free survey. This visit takes about 30 to 60 minutes. They’ll check your current boiler, insulation, heating system, and overall energy use.

Waiting for an appointment is often the longest part. Depending on how busy they are, you may wait up to 2 weeks for a surveyor to visit.

Tip: Be flexible with your availability to get an earlier appointment.

4. Survey Review and Approval (2 to 5 Days)

After the survey, the team reviews your case. If your boiler is eligible, and you meet all the conditions, they will approve your grant.

Some grant providers offer same-day approval, but others take up to 5 working days.

5. Installation Booking (1 to 2 Weeks)

Once your grant is approved, the provider will arrange a date for installation. This can depend on how busy the installers are in your area. Most companies aim to install the new boiler within 1 to 2 weeks of approval.

Tip: Choose a weekday and be available to speed things up.

6. Boiler Installation (1 Day)

The final step is the installation itself. This usually takes one day to complete. The team will remove your old boiler and replace it with a new, energy-efficient model.

They may also do some safety checks and give you a demonstration of how to use it.

Total Time from Start to Finish: 2 to 8 Weeks

Here’s a quick summary:

Step	Time Estimate
Application	1–3 days
Eligibility Check	3–7 days
Home Survey	1–2 weeks
Survey Review & Approval	2–5 days
Booking Installation	1–2 weeks
Boiler Installation	1 day

What Can Delay the Boiler Grant Process?

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are a few common reasons for delays:

• Missing documents: Not sending in proof of benefits or ID can hold things up.

• Busy surveyors or installers: In winter or during promotions, companies may have long waiting lists.

• Incorrect information: Giving wrong details can lead to rejected applications or extra checks.

• Bad weather: Snow or storms can delay home visits and installation.

• Technical problems: If your heating system is unusual or your boiler is hard to access, it might take longer.

Tip: Stay in contact with your provider and reply to their messages quickly.

Can You Speed Up the Process?

Yes, there are a few ways to make things faster:

1. Apply early: Don’t wait until winter. Demand is higher then.

2. Use a trusted provider: Choose one with good reviews and quick response times.

3. Have your documents ready: Prepare benefit letters, utility bills, and ID.

4. Be available for surveys and installation: The more flexible you are, the sooner it will happen.

5. Follow up politely: A short email or call can remind them you’re waiting.

Is There a Way to Track the Progress?

Some Boiler Grant providers offer an online portal or will update you by email or text. Others may give you a phone number to call for updates. Ask your provider how they will keep you informed.

If you haven’t heard anything after 10 days, follow up. Sometimes emails go to your spam folder, or they may be waiting for something from you.

What Happens After Installation?

Once your new boiler is installed, the installer will test it to make sure it works properly. They will show you how to use it and may give you a user manual.

You may also receive a warranty and a certificate of installation. Keep these documents safe.

Some schemes will do a follow-up call to check you’re happy with the service.

Will I Need to Pay Anything?

In many cases, a Boiler Grant covers the full cost of the boiler and installation. But sometimes, there’s a small contribution required, especially if you don’t qualify for 100% funding.

The surveyor will tell you if there’s any cost before you agree to go ahead. Always make sure the terms are clear.

Is the Boiler Grant Still Available in 2025?

Yes. The government has extended the ECO scheme to ECO4, which runs until March 2026. This includes Boiler Grants for eligible homes.

However, the rules may change, and funding is limited. It’s a good idea to apply as soon as you think you qualify.

Final Thoughts

The full process of getting a Boiler Grant in the UK can take as little as two weeks or as long as eight weeks. It all depends on how prepared you are and how busy the provider is.

Here are the key takeaways:

• Most delays come from waiting for surveys or installers.
• You can speed things up by staying organized and being available.
• Choose a provider with a good reputation and fast service.
• Boiler Grants are still available, but funding is limited — don’t wait.

Getting a new boiler can make your home warmer, safer, and cheaper to heat. If you think you qualify, start your oil fired boiler replacement grants application today.

Looking to Apply for a Boiler Grant?
Start your application now and enjoy a warmer home with lower bills. Don’t miss out on government funding — check your eligibility today!