If you’re applying for a “boiler grant” in Scotland, you’re usually looking at support for low-carbon heating (most often heat pumps) and energy-efficiency measures through Scottish Government schemes rather than the England/Wales Boiler Upgrade Scheme. The key routes are the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan, Warmer Homes Scotland, and GB-wide supplier schemes like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). You can also check Free boiler Scotland for additional options.
This guide covers all required documents and provides practical advice to help you get approved faster. For a broader guide, visit the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Guide.
Quick Summary of Documents You’ll Likely Need
- Proof of identity and address
- Evidence of property ownership or permission to proceed
- An up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Itemised quotes from qualified installers
- Photos/details of your current heating system
- Financial documents (if applying for loans or income-based schemes)
- Consents from landlords or joint owners, if applicable
Core Documents Most Applicants Will Need
1) Proof of Identity
Valid passport or driving licence. Make sure names match across all your documents.
2) Proof of Address
Recent council tax or utility bill, or tenancy agreement.
3) Proof of Property Ownership or Permission
Provide title deeds, mortgage statement, or landlord registration number if applicable.
4) Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
A current EPC is needed to confirm your home’s efficiency. If your EPC recommends insulation, you may need to complete it before installing a new heating system.
5) Installer Quotes and Technical Details
Include detailed quotes with heat-loss calculations, system size, and installer certification (MCS for heat pumps).
6) Photos and Evidence of Current System
Take photos of your boiler, hot water tank, and radiators. Mention system age and condition.
7) Financial Documents
Provide income or benefit evidence if required by schemes like ECO4 or Warmer Homes Scotland.
8) Planning or Building Consent
Usually not required for single home heat pumps, but may be needed for listed or shared properties.
Scheme-by-Scheme: What You’ll Typically Be Asked For
Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan
Application form, ID, address proof, EPC, quotes, photos, and bank details. Learn more at Home Energy Scotland.
Warmer Homes Scotland
Provide ID, address, EPC, and eligibility evidence (income or benefits). Details at Warmer Homes Scotland.
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation)
Provide proof of address, benefits, and EPC. See Ofgem ECO4.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
Provide address proof, council tax band, and EPC. Details at Ofgem GBIS.
Extra Notes for Specific Situations
- Landlords: Provide registration and tenant consent.
- Flats/shared buildings: Need majority consent if works affect shared fabric.
- Off-gas or rural: May need fuel bill evidence for eligibility.
How to Prepare and Avoid Delays
- Get early advice from Home Energy Scotland.
- Book or update your EPC.
- Get high-quality quotes from certified installers.
- Ensure all documents match and are legible.
- Keep digital copies for quick re-submission if needed.
FAQs
Do I need an EPC?
Yes, most schemes require an EPC to confirm your home’s energy performance.
Can tenants apply?
Yes, under certain schemes with landlord permission.
Do I need planning permission?
Usually not, unless your property is listed or in a conservation area.
Conclusion
The documents you’ll need depend on the scheme and your situation, but most Scottish applications involve proof of ID and address, ownership or consent, EPC, installer quotes, and—if relevant—income evidence. Preparing these in advance helps secure funding smoothly and ensures your application moves forward quickly.