The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government grant designed to help homeowners and small non‑domestic buildings replace fossil-fuel heating with a cleaner alternative — most commonly an air source or ground source heat pump.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is an upfront grant that reduces the cost of switching from fossil-fuel heating (like gas, oil, or LPG) to low‑carbon systems. It’s intended to support the UK’s wider plans to decarbonise home heating over the coming years.

How does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme work?

BUS is designed to be simple for households. Instead of you applying directly, the installer applies for the grant voucher and takes the grant amount off your total installation cost.

How the process usually works

1. You choose an eligible heat pump installer (typically MCS certified).
2. The installer provides a quote and confirms you meet scheme requirements.
3. The installer applies for the BUS voucher on your behalf.
4. Once approved, the voucher value is applied to your final price.
5. The installer completes the installation and redeems the voucher.

What does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme pay for?

Technology	Grant amount	Notes
Air source heat pump (ASHP)	£7,500	Most common BUS-supported option
Ground source heat pump (GSHP)	£7,500	Higher install cost but strong long-term performance
Biomass boiler	£5,000	Typically for off‑gas-grid, rural homes (extra conditions apply)

Who is eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

Eligibility is based on your location, your property type, and your current heating setup. The scheme is aimed at helping people replace an existing fossil fuel heating system.

Common eligibility requirements

• You own the property (including landlords and some small non‑domestic buildings).
• The property is in England or Wales.
• You’re replacing a fossil-fuel heating system (e.g., gas or oil).
• You have a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate).
• The property hasn’t already received certain public funding for a heat pump/biomass system in the past.

Extra eligibility rules for biomass boilers

Biomass boilers can be supported under BUS, but normally only if:

• The home is off the gas grid
• It’s in a rural location
• The boiler meets emissions requirements (usually proven through certification)

How to apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme

You don’t usually apply directly. The application is completed by your installer, but you can make the process quicker by having your basic information ready.

Checklist before you request quotes

• Your postcode and property type (house/flat, detached/semi/terrace)
• Your current heating system (gas/oil/LPG/electric)
• Your EPC certificate (or the EPC number)
• Your average annual energy usage (optional, but helpful)
• Whether you already have solar panels or plan to add them

How much does BUS reduce the cost of a heat pump?

The £7,500 discount can make a significant difference, especially for air source heat pumps. Many households will see the grant cover a substantial portion of the overall installed cost — though the final price still depends on property upgrades like radiator changes or hot water cylinder replacement.

What doesn’t the Boiler Upgrade Scheme cover?

The grant usually applies to the main heating technology installation. Some extra work can still increase the price, including:

• Radiator upgrades (larger radiators for low-temperature heating)
• Hot water cylinder upgrades
• Pipework changes and system flushing
• Electrical upgrades (consumer unit/cabling)
• Insulation improvements (recommended for best results)

Can I get BUS for a hybrid heat pump system?

Hybrid systems (for example, a heat pump paired with a gas boiler) are commonly stated as not covered under BUS. The scheme is designed to support full low‑carbon heating replacements rather than blended fossil-fuel systems.

How long does a BUS voucher last?

Once the voucher is approved, it typically has a time limit for completing the installation. Ground source heat pumps may have longer installation windows due to complexity, while air source installs are often quicker.

How to avoid Boiler Upgrade Scheme scams

BUS is a real government scheme, but scammers may use it as a hook. To stay safe:

• Be cautious with cold calls promising “free heat pumps” automatically
• Use installers who can prove MCS certification
• Get everything in writing (quote, inclusions, timeline, warranties)
• Don’t pay large deposits without clear terms and protections

Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme worth using?

For eligible households in England and Wales, BUS is one of the biggest ways to reduce the cost of installing a heat pump. If your home is suitable for low‑temperature heating and you can combine the grant with good insulation, it can be a strong long-term upgrade.