The BUS Grant Application: Visual Flowchart

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides £7,500 towards the cost of an air source heat pump installation. It is the single biggest financial incentive available to UK homeowners considering the switch from fossil fuel heating. But many people are put off by concerns about paperwork and process. This guide shows exactly how the application works — step by step, with a visual flowchart — so you can see how straightforward it really is.

The key thing to understand: you do not apply for the BUS grant yourself. Your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf. Your main responsibility is having a valid EPC and ensuring any recommended insulation is addressed. The installer handles everything else.

The Process at a Glance

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before anything else, confirm you qualify. Eligibility requirements are:

• You own the property (or are a landlord with tenant consent)
• The property is in England or Wales
• You have (or will get) a valid EPC
• The installation will be by an MCS-certified installer
• You are replacing an existing heating system (not a new build)

Most UK homeowners qualify. The scheme does not have income requirements or property value limits. Use our suitability checker for a quick eligibility assessment.

Step 2: Get Your EPC

Check if you have a valid EPC at gov.uk/find-energy-certificate. If you do not have one, or it is over 10 years old, you need a new one. Cost: £60-£120. Time: 1-2 weeks. See our EPC decoder guide for full details.

Step 3: Address Any Insulation Recommendations

If your EPC recommends loft insulation (to 270mm) or cavity wall insulation, these should be done before the heat pump installation. Options include:

• ECO4 funding (often covers full cost for eligible households)
• Local authority energy efficiency grants
• Self-funded (loft insulation typically costs £300-£500, cavity walls £500-£1,500)

If your home has solid walls (no cavities) or the insulation recommendation is not appropriate, your installer can note this on the BUS application.

Step 4: Get Installer Quotes

Get at least 3 quotes from MCS-certified installers. Each installer will survey your home (2-3 hours), produce a heat loss calculation, and provide a detailed quote showing the total cost, BUS grant deduction, and your net payment. See our guide to avoiding scams for what to look for in a good installer.

Step 5: Accept a Quote and Sign the Contract

Choose your preferred installer and sign the contract. The contract should specify the total cost, the BUS grant amount (£7,500), and your net payment. Payment terms should require no more than 20% upfront.

Step 6: Installer Applies for the BUS Grant

Your installer submits the BUS grant application through the Ofgem portal. They need your EPC reference number, property details, and the proposed system specification. You will receive an email confirming the application has been submitted.

Step 7: Grant Approved (1-3 Weeks)

Ofgem reviews the application and confirms approval — typically within 1-3 weeks. You receive confirmation that the £7,500 grant is reserved for your installation. The grant is valid for 3 months from approval, giving time to schedule the installation.

Step 8: Installation (2-3 Days)

The installer carries out the installation — typically 2-3 days. You pay the agreed net amount (total cost minus £7,500 grant). The installer completes the MCS certification process.

Step 9: Certification, Payment, and Handover

After installation, the installer submits completion evidence to Ofgem. Ofgem pays the £7,500 directly to the installer. You receive your MCS certificate, commissioning report, and warranty documentation. Your new heat pump is operational, and the process is complete.

Timeline Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

You don't — your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf through the Ofgem portal. You need a valid EPC and addressed insulation recommendations.

How long does approval take?

1-3 weeks from application. Approval is usually confirmed before installation begins.

Do I receive the money?

No. Ofgem pays the £7,500 directly to the installer after completion. You pay only the difference.

What if my application is rejected?

Usually due to missing EPC or unaddressed insulation. Your installer should check eligibility first. Issues are typically resolvable.

Can I combine it with other funding?

Yes — ECO4 for insulation, local authority grants, and green finance. Not combinable with Scotland's Home Energy Scotland scheme.

How long is the scheme available?

Confirmed until March 2028. Future availability depends on government policy — acting now locks in the benefit.