Guide · ECO and funded retrofit
ECO4 and the Warm Homes Plan: What Landlords and Households Should Know
Where energy-efficiency support stands, what usually has to happen before funded work starts and how to prepare.
Where things stand
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is funded through energy suppliers and supports eligible households with measures such as insulation and heating upgrades. Current published information indicates that ECO4 is scheduled to close at the end of December 2026, with the government’s Warm Homes Plan expected to follow. Scheme rules, eligibility and available measures change, so confirm the current position before you commit to works. We cannot guarantee that any property will qualify.
What usually has to happen before funded work starts
- Eligibility is checked under the scheme rules, which depend on household circumstances, tenure and the property’s energy performance.
- The property is surveyed and assessed, often including an EPC and, for more complex work, a retrofit assessment.
- Measures are specified and installed in line with PAS 2035 by registered installers.
- Evidence of the installed work is recorded, which can include post-works EPCs.
For private rented homes, the landlord’s agreement is generally needed. See our PAS 2035 guide and ECO and funded retrofit assessments.
Be careful with offers
Treat unsolicited offers of free work with caution. Check that any installer is registered with TrustMark, ask what assessments will be done first, and do not sign anything you do not understand.
Ask about surveys for ECO or retrofit
Send the postcode, tenure and what you need. For programmes, include the number of properties.
Frequently asked questions
Is ECO4 still open?
Current published information indicates ECO4 is scheduled to close at the end of December 2026, with the Warm Homes Plan expected to follow. Confirm the current position before relying on funding.
Does the property need an EPC first?
Surveys and EPCs are commonly part of the assessment process for funded work. We confirm what applies to your property when you enquire.
Who pays for the survey?
That depends on the scheme and the arrangement. Ask at the start who is responsible for survey and assessment costs.