With rising energy costs and new regulations tightening around rental standards, landlords are under increasing pressure to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. But here’s the good news: the ECO4 scheme is offering generous funding to help landlords upgrade eligible homes at little or no cost.
Whether you manage one buy-to-let or a full portfolio, taking advantage of ECO4 now can protect your investment, boost tenant satisfaction, and keep you legally compliant. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is ECO4?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government-backed scheme designed to help make homes across the UK more energy efficient. It does this by funding insulation, heating upgrades, and other improvements in homes with low EPC ratings.
For landlords, that means grants are available to improve the energy efficiency of eligible rental properties without having to foot the full bill.
What If Your Property Doesn’t Qualify for ECO4?
If your tenant or property isn’t eligible under ECO4, don’t worry there’s still support available. The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) offers funding to help improve energy efficiency in homes that fall outside the strict ECO4 criteria. It’s aimed at properties in England with council tax bands A–D, and doesn’t require the tenant to be on benefits.
Even under GBIS, landlords can still access heavily subsidised insulation upgrades, with many only required to contribute a small portion of the cost. It’s another great route to cut heat loss, improve comfort, and meet future energy efficiency standards without breaking the bank.
Why It Matters To Landlords
1. Meet Legal EPC Requirements
Landlords are already required to ensure rental properties have an EPC rating of E due to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
However, the government has proposed that all landlords properties will need to achieve a C or above by 2030, with new tenancies needing to meet this standard by 2028.
Upgrading now helps you:
- Future-proof your portfolio
- Avoid costly fines
- Stay compliant with upcoming legislation
2. Increase Property Value
Energy-efficient properties are more attractive to both buyers and tenants. Investing in insulation, upgraded heating, and renewable technologies like heat pumps can increase the resale value and rental yield of your property.
3. Happier Tenants = Longer Tenancies
Homes that are warmer, cheaper to run, and less prone to damp or mould issues are more appealing to tenants. Improving energy efficiency can reduce tenant turnover and boost your reputation as a responsible landlord.
What Kind Of Upgrades Are Available?
ECO4 funding can cover a wide range of improvements, including:
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
- First-time central heating systems
- Air source heat pumps
- Smart heating controls
- Boiler upgrades (in certain cases)
Upgrades are tailored to each property’s needs.
Don’t Wait Take Action Now
The ECO4 scheme is set to run until March 2026. With future energy standards likely to get stricter, landlords who act now will be ahead of the curve.
Ready To Upgrade Your Property?
Get in touch today for a free ECO4 assessment and find out what improvements your property could qualify for with no obligation.
You can call us at 01422 414850 or email our team at sales@eclipseenergy.co.uk