Can I speed up the BUS grant process?

Yes — have your property and heating details ready, respond quickly to installer requests, and choose an experienced installer who has completed many BUS applications. GOV.UK does not list an EPC as a BUS eligibility condition.

When should I start the process?

If you want a heat pump before winter, start by May or June to allow time for quotes, application, and installation.

Heat Pump Grant Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Q: How long does the BUS grant take?

Ofgem approval takes 2-4 weeks. The full process from first contact to working heat pump is typically 8-16 weeks.

By Home Heat Pump Guide Published 18 March 2026

Heat pump engineer adjusting controls after completing a BUS grant-funded installation — From first enquiry to a working heat pump: typically 8-16 weeks. Here is the full timeline breakdown.

The Ofgem approval itself takes 2-4 weeks — but the full process from first enquiry to a working heat pump is typically 8-16 weeks. Planning ahead is key. If you want your heat pump before winter, start by May or June. For what you can claim, see Boiler Upgrade Scheme eligibility and amounts.

Get the process started today

Request a heat pump quote

The sooner you get quotes, the sooner your installer can apply.

Full Timeline Breakdown

Stage	Duration	What Happens
Get quotes and surveys	2-4 weeks	Contact installers, property surveys, compare quotes
Choose installer, sign contract	1 week	Select your preferred installer, sign agreement
BUS application submitted	1-2 days	Installer submits to Ofgem portal
Ofgem approval	2-4 weeks	Application reviewed, voucher issued
Wait for installation date	2-8 weeks	Depends on installer diary
Installation	1-3 days	Old boiler removed, heat pump installed
Grant payment	1-2 weeks	Ofgem pays installer, you pay balance

Total: 8-16 weeks. Summer installations tend to be faster due to better availability.

Heat pump pipework being installed at a UK home during the BUS grant installation phase — Installation itself takes just 1-3 days — the waiting is mostly for quotes, Ofgem approval, and installer availability.

How to Speed Up the Process

Have your property details ready (GOV.UK does not list an EPC as a BUS condition; your installer confirms what is needed)
Choose an experienced installer with a strong BUS track record
Respond quickly to document requests and sign promptly
Start in spring or early summer for the widest installer availability
Contact several MCS-certified installers at the same time rather than one after another

Common Causes of Delays

Slow document provision, design changes after the survey, and busy installer schedules (especially autumn/winter). Note that BUS vouchers are time-limited, so agree an installation date before your installer applies. See our application guide for tips on avoiding delays.

MCS installer conducting a home survey as part of the BUS grant timeline process — The survey stage is where good installers identify potential issues early — saving time later in the process.

Calculate your costs while waiting for installation

Use the Calculator

See your personalised costs after the BUS grant.

Start the clock — get quotes now

Request a heat pump quote

The sooner you start, the sooner you will have your heat pump.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the BUS grant take?

Ofgem approval: 2-4 weeks. Full process: 8-16 weeks.

Can I speed it up?

Yes — have your property details ready, respond quickly, and choose an experienced installer.

When should I start?

May or June if you want a heat pump before winter.

About the BUS Grant Timeline

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme timeline is one of the most common concerns for homeowners considering a heat pump. The application process is managed by your MCS-certified installer through Ofgem, with approval typically taking 2-4 weeks. The full process from first enquiry to working heat pump takes 8-16 weeks. This compares favourably to the defunct Green Homes Grant, which often took months with no resolution. Homeowners also considering solar panels can often coordinate both installations for maximum efficiency.