A property expert has identified five home improvements that could help UK homeowners save on their energy bills – and they can be installed at no cost through current support programmes
As energy costs soar there could be a way you can cut your bills without having to shell out any money.
The importance of improving home energy efficiency in the UK has been underscored by the persistent high energy costs following the 2022 surge.
However, many may not be aware their homes could potentially qualify for government-backed improvements, which would inevitably reduce household energy costs.
A UK property expert has highlighted five home upgrades that could assist homeowners in reducing their energy bills. Importantly, these can be installed at no cost through existing support schemes.
The expert also explains how each subsidised installation could help households save hundreds of pounds annually on their energy bills.
Saif Derzi, founder of Property Buyers Today, says: “Millions of homes across the UK qualify for fully funded improvements that can boost efficiency and cut costs, but most owners aren’t aware they’re eligible. The Energy Company Obligation and other programmes specifically target properties with poor energy ratings to help reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions.”, reports the Express.
Read on to discover which home improvements are supported by the government or have available support schemes, and whether you’re eligible.
Cavity wall insulation
Homes with uninsulated cavity walls lose heat quickly, resulting in wasted money every time the heating is turned on. Many homes built between 1930 and 1990 have cavity walls that can easily be filled with insulation to improve efficiency.
According to Saif, fitting cavity wall insulation could save a typical semi-detached property around £300 each year on energy costs. The fitting process is now simple and usually takes just a few hours to finish.
External wall insulation
Homes constructed before 1930 often have solid walls that lose twice as much heat as cavity walls. External insulation works like a thermal blanket, boosting the property’s energy efficiency while also giving it a fresh appearance.
This upgrade is especially suitable for older homes, providing both energy savings and visual improvements. The finish can mimic traditional rendering or brickwork, helping to maintain the character of period properties.
Boiler replacements
Boiler replacements are amongst the most worthwhile free upgrades on offer, as older, inefficient systems waste considerable amounts of gas or oil and often fail to keep homes warm.
Modern condensing boilers work at 90% efficiency or higher, compared to older systems that might operate at just 60%. This upgrade can lead to significant cuts in energy bills.
The property buying expert explains: “This upgrade alone can reduce heating costs by 30% or more. Qualifying households can receive completely new heating systems under schemes like ECO4.”
Loft insulation
Loft insulation is another beneficial upgrade available to many British households. Saif notes: “According to the UK Parliament, about 7.9 million homes across Britain have inadequate loft insulation, letting valuable heat escape through the roof. Installing insulation to a depth of at least 270mm creates a strong thermal barrier that can significantly reduce heating costs.”
The process involves laying mineral wool or similar materials across loft spaces to trap heat that would otherwise rise and escape. Homes with proper insulation often feel warmer and more comfortable almost immediately.
Solar panel installation
Fitting solar panels is another worthwhile upgrade now available through government schemes for qualifying households.
“Free solar panel systems allow homes to generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on grid power and lowering energy costs. This technology was not previously included in government schemes but now offers one of the most rewarding upgrades available,” Saif explains.
A typical 4kW solar system can provide roughly one third of a household’s electricity needs, with the greatest savings achieved during summer months. Properties with south-facing roofs benefit most, though east and west-facing homes can also produce substantial amounts of power.
Who qualifies for these free upgrades?
Eligibility for fully funded improvements usually depends on factors such as household income, benefits status, and the property’s energy efficiency rating. “The main qualifying factors include receiving benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, having a household income below certain thresholds, or living in a home with a low energy efficiency rating,” Saif said.
“Councils set their own criteria, often including factors like age, health conditions, or location in deprived areas. Properties must typically have Energy Performance Certificate ratings of D to G to qualify, which accounts for nearly half of UK housing stock.”
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero manages several Help to Heat schemes delivering these upgrades, whilst The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Programme offers the most significant funding source, running until March 2026.
Local Authority Flexible Eligibility can extend access to these schemes for households that might otherwise be ineligible, even without claiming benefits, and The Great British Insulation Scheme expands eligibility to households in council tax bands A to D in England, and A to E in Scotland and Wales, provided they have suitable property types.
How to apply for home improvements The application process begins with an eligibility assessment, which can be completed quickly over the phone. Homeowners can apply through their energy supplier, local council, or specialist eligibility checkers who help navigate the various schemes on offer.
Following approval, a qualified surveyor visits the property to assess which improvements would be most appropriate and practically feasible. After the assessment, work is arranged with certified contractors.
The entire procedure typically takes between 4-12 weeks from initial enquiry to completion.
Saif advises householders to act swiftly to secure these upgrades, explaining: “Funding allocations change periodically, and schemes do eventually close. Homeowners with poorly insulated properties should check their eligibility now to avoid missing out on these opportunities.
“What makes these schemes especially valuable is that eligible households receive completely free installations with no catch and no repayments required. Installing multiple energy efficiency measures can turn a cold, expensive-to-heat home into a comfortable and more affordable property,” the expert shares.
“By taking advantage of these fully funded upgrades, homeowners can reduce energy bills, make their homes more comfortable, and contribute to a greener future,” says Saif.