Do I need a minimum EPC rating for the heat pump grant?

No. GOV.UK's Boiler Upgrade Scheme eligibility rules do not list an EPC or a minimum EPC rating. You do not need to buy an EPC to apply; your MCS-certified installer confirms what the scheme needs.

EPC Requirements for Heat Pump Grant: What You Need to Know

Q: What if my EPC recommends insulation?

The old rule that outstanding loft or cavity wall insulation recommendations had to be completed before a BUS application was removed in May 2024. Insulating is still worthwhile because it lowers heat demand and running costs.

Q: How much does an EPC cost?

Prices vary by assessor. An EPC is valid for 10 years, so check the EPC register first: you may already have one. You do not need one for the BUS grant, but you will need one to sell or let a home.

By Home Heat Pump Guide Published 18 March 2026

UK homeowner reviewing EPC certificate to check heat pump grant eligibility requirements — GOV.UK does not list an EPC as a BUS eligibility condition, and there is no minimum rating.

GOV.UK does not list an EPC as an eligibility requirement for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and there is no minimum rating. This is one of the most misunderstood parts of BUS grant eligibility, because the rules have changed: the requirement for outstanding loft and cavity wall insulation recommendations to be completed was removed in May 2024, and the government's scheme change log describes "relaxing the requirement for a valid EPC" from 28 April 2026. You do not need to buy an EPC to apply; your installer confirms what the scheme needs.

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What the Rules Say Now

Not listedEPC is not in the GOV.UK BUS eligibility list

No minimumNo minimum EPC rating

May 2024Insulation-recommendation rule removed

The GOV.UK "check if you're eligible" page for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme lists ownership, location (England or Wales), replacing a fossil fuel system and using an MCS-certified installer. It does not list an EPC. Your installer applies on your behalf and will tell you if they need any property information. Last reviewed October 2026.

The Old Insulation Rule

Heat pump system in a well-insulated UK utility room — Insulation is no longer a BUS condition, but it still makes a heat pump cheaper to run.

When the scheme launched, an EPC with outstanding loft or cavity wall insulation recommendations could hold up an application. That condition was removed in May 2024, so many older articles (and some installer websites) are out of date.

Insulating is still a good idea: it lowers your heat demand, allows a smaller heat pump, and makes it cost less to run.

When an EPC Still Helps

You do not need to buy an EPC for the BUS grant. An EPC is still required by law when you sell or let a home, and it is valid for 10 years, so check the EPC register website first: you may already have one. If you want a new one, book an accredited domestic energy assessor (prices vary). Your installer will confirm whether they need anything for the grant application.

Heat pump installer checking EPC recommendations during a home survey for BUS grant eligibility — Your installer surveys the home, works out the heat loss and handles the BUS application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum EPC rating?

No. GOV.UK does not list an EPC or a minimum rating as a BUS condition.

What if my EPC recommends insulation?

That rule was removed in May 2024. Insulating is still worthwhile for lower running costs.

How much does an EPC cost?

Prices vary by assessor. An EPC lasts 10 years, so check the register first. You do not need one for the BUS grant.

About EPC Requirements and Heat Pump Grants

Energy Performance Certificates are no longer listed in the GOV.UK eligibility requirements for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and the insulation-recommendation rule was removed in May 2024. Insulation still matters for heat pump performance. Well-insulated homes deliver better running costs and more comfortable heating. The complete grants guide covers all eligibility criteria. Homeowners improving insulation alongside a heat pump and solar panels can achieve dramatic reductions in energy bills.