Government widens Boiler Upgrade Scheme with £9,000 heat pump grant for off-gas grid homes
The Government has confirmed changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme that will widen the range of domestic heating upgrades eligible for support and increase the grant available for some households. From 21 July 2026, eligible off-gas grid properties replacing coal, oil or liquefied petroleum gas heating systems with an air or ground source heat pump will be able to access a grant of £9,000.
The move is designed to make low-carbon heating more affordable for homes that are not connected to the mains gas network, many of which currently rely on delivered fossil fuels. These households can be more exposed to fuel price volatility, so the increased grant is intended to reduce the upfront cost of switching to a heat pump and support the wider transition away from fossil-fuel heating.
Under the amended rules, the grant will cover the conversion of an off-gas grid domestic property with a coal, oil or LPG heating system to an air source or ground source heat pump. The grant is linked to the installation itself, meaning landlords carrying out qualifying works in private rented properties will also be able to claim support where the property meets the scheme requirements.
For landlords, the change could make planned heating upgrades more financially viable, particularly in rural areas where older oil, LPG or coal systems remain common. It may also help improve the energy performance and long-term resilience of rented homes, while reducing reliance on fuels that can be costly and subject to supply fluctuations.
Rebecca Ruck-Keene, Partner and Head of Rural Property Management, said: “This increase in support is a welcome step for rural landlords and homeowners who often face higher costs and more complex decisions when upgrading heating systems in off-gas grid properties. Many rural homes rely on older oil, LPG or coal systems, and the upfront cost of moving to low-carbon heating can be a significant barrier.
“The higher grant could help make heat pump installations more achievable, but landlords should still take a strategic approach. Every property is different, particularly in rural and heritage settings, so it is important to assess suitability, understand the scheme requirements and plan works carefully before committing to investment.”
Households and landlords considering an upgrade should check the final eligibility criteria before committing to works, including whether the property is off the gas grid, the type of heating system being replaced, and whether the chosen installer is approved to deliver work under the scheme. With the changes due to apply from 21 July 2026, those planning improvements may wish to review upcoming projects now so they can take advantage of the higher level of support once it becomes available.