How to spot a genuine boiler grant installer (and avoid scams)

By ApplyFreeBoiler.uk (Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd), an ECO4 heating and insulation installer based in Bury, Greater Manchester. We are not the government, Ofgem, your council or an energy supplier.

Offers of free or funded boilers are common, and most come from genuine installers working under ECO4. But the same messages are also used by scammers. This guide sets out practical checks you can make before you share personal details or let anyone into your home.

How genuine ECO4 work is arranged

ECO4 is an obligation placed on larger energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in eligible homes. The scheme is administered by Ofgem, but Ofgem does not install anything or contact households to sell measures. Work is delivered by installers who work with energy suppliers. Councils may also be involved through LA Flex.

This means a genuine installer will usually be a private company. That is normal. What matters is whether they are open about who they are and how the work is funded.

Checks to make before you share details

1. Company details. Look for a registered company name and number, and check it on Companies House. The registered address should make sense.
2. Clear funding explanation. A genuine installer should explain that work is funded through ECO4 by energy suppliers, that eligibility does not guarantee an installation, and that a survey comes first.
3. No fee to apply. Be wary of anyone who asks for a fee just to apply or to "reserve" a place.
4. Written terms. Any contribution should be set out in writing before work starts. Ofgem notes that contributions can apply in some cases.
5. No pressure. You should be able to take time to think, check and talk to family.

Checks to make at the door

• Identification. Ask for ID and take time to check it. A genuine surveyor will wait.
• Gas Safe registration. Anyone working on a gas boiler must be Gas Safe registered. Ask to see the engineer's Gas Safe ID card and check the number on the Gas Safe Register.
• Appointment. Genuine surveys are usually booked in advance. Be cautious of unexpected visitors.

Warning signs

• They claim to be from the government, Ofgem or your energy supplier when they are not.
• They ask for bank details, PINs or passwords.
• They want payment in cash or by bank transfer before any survey.
• They pressure you to sign on the day or say an offer ends today.
• They cannot give a company name, number or address.

If something does not feel right

You do not have to continue. Close the door or end the call. You can report suspected scams to Action Fraud, or to Police Scotland if you live in Scotland. Citizens Advice can also help you check whether an offer is genuine.

About us

ApplyFreeBoiler.uk is run by Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd (company no. 16100301), an ECO4 heating and insulation installer based in Bury, Greater Manchester. Energy suppliers pay us for installations we complete under ECO4. ECO4 is due to end on 31 December 2026.

Learn more

Read our guide on whether free boiler grants are a scam, or use the Gas Safe engineer checker before any work starts.

Published by ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, run by Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd (company no. 16100301), Bury, Greater Manchester.