How to get free energy improvements to your rented home if you are on benefits

If you rent from a private landlord and you are on a low income or benefits, you may be able to get free energy upgrades installed in your home. That means things like insulation, a new heating system, or solar panels — paid for by the government, with nothing for you to pay.

The scheme is called the Warm Homes: Local Grant. It is different from the Warm Home Discount, which is a one-off rebate off your energy bill each year. The Local Grant pays for physical work done to your home to make it warmer and cheaper to heat.

Who can apply

You need to pass two tests.

Income test. You qualify if your total household income is £36,000 a year or less. You also qualify if you or someone you live with gets a means-tested benefit — including Universal Credit (UC), Housing Benefit, Income Support, or Pension Credit. If you get UC or Housing Benefit already, you automatically pass the income test.

Property test. Your rented home must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G. You can check your home's EPC rating for free on the government's EPC register at GOV.UK.

What can be installed

The grant can pay for a range of improvements, including:

• loft insulation and wall insulation
• low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps
• solar panels

You pay nothing toward the cost. Your landlord needs to agree before the work begins, but they cannot put up your rent because of any improvements made.

For private landlords, the cost of the first eligible home they put through the scheme is fully covered — they pay nothing for that first property either. Letting them know this may help if they are unsure.

How to apply

The scheme is run by local councils across England. To start your application:

1. Visit www.gov.uk/apply-warm-homes-local-grant.
2. Enter your postcode to reach your local council's application form.
3. Complete the form. Your council will usually contact you within 10 working days to arrange a survey of your home.

The list of participating councils was updated in July 2026, so it is worth checking even if your area was not included earlier.

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If your landlord will not agree

If your landlord refuses to allow the work, Citizens Advice can help you understand your rights and what steps you could take next. Shelter also offers free specialist housing advice if your situation is more complex.

Apply now while funding is available

The Warm Homes: Local Grant runs until March 2028, but each council has a fixed amount of funding. Applications are dealt with in the order they arrive, so applying now gives you a better chance of getting a place in the queue before the money in your area runs out.