Grant rules checked against Ofgem on 15 October 2026
How to apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Published and last updated 15 October 2026
You don't apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme yourself: your MCS-certified installer applies to Ofgem on your behalf and takes the grant off your quote. Your part is to choose an installer, confirm consent when Ofgem contacts you (within 14 days), and pay the balance once the heat pump is fitted.
- 1
Check your home is suitable
Use our eligibility checker and the government's free heat pump check. Government heat pump check
- 2
Get quotes from MCS-certified installers
Ofgem recommends getting more than one. Each quote should show the grant deducted. Choosing an installer
- 3
Your installer applies
After a survey, your chosen installer submits the application to Ofgem.
- 4
Confirm your consent
Ofgem contacts you to confirm you agreed to the application and meet the rules. Reply within 14 calendar days or the application may be rejected.
- 5
Installation
The installer has 3 months from approval to fit and commission an air source heat pump (6 months for ground source).
- 6
Installer claims the grant, you pay the rest
Once the system is commissioned, the installer redeems the voucher with Ofgem and you pay the balance.
How long does the whole process take?
From approval, your installer has up to 3 months to complete an air source heat pump installation. The survey and quote stage comes before that and varies by installer.
What does confirming consent actually mean?
Confirming consent only tells Ofgem you agreed to the installer applying on your behalf; it doesn't sign you up to a contract. Your contract with the installer is separate.
What if more than one installer applies?
You can only confirm consent for one installer, and Ofgem then rejects any other applications for your property. Only let your chosen installer submit an application.
What happens if the installation runs past 3 months?
The installer has to submit a new application and you have to confirm consent again.
Will Ofgem check my installation?
Possibly. Ofgem can carry out routine checks at any point, including a site visit after payment.
How do you avoid problems?
You avoid most problems by only working with an installer you've chosen and checking the paperwork.
- Only confirm consent for an installer you've chosen.
- Make sure the grant is shown as a deduction on your written quote.
- Check the installer's MCS certification on mcscertified.com.
- Know the complaints route: installer, then MCS, then the consumer code body such as RECC or HIES.
Ofgem BUS enquiries: BUS.Enquiry@ofgem.gov.uk, 0330 053 2006.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply directly to Ofgem?
No, the scheme is installer-led. Your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf.
Do I pay the £7,500 and claim it back?
No, it's deducted upfront from your quote.
What if I miss Ofgem's 14-day email?
The application may be rejected; contact your installer to resubmit.
Can I change installer after confirming consent?
Contact Ofgem at BUS.Application@ofgem.gov.uk if consent was confirmed by mistake.