If you want to apply for Boiler Upgrade Scheme support, the process is more straightforward than many homeowners expect.

The important point is that you do not submit the main Ofgem voucher application yourself. Your chosen MCS-certified installer handles it for you.

Follow these steps to understand what happens from the first quote to the final bill.

Step 1: Check the Basic Eligibility Rules

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports eligible properties in England and Wales.

You will normally need to own the property and be replacing gas, oil, LPG or conventional electric heating.

A new gas boiler is not covered; the programme supports qualifying heat pumps and certain biomass boilers.

Some properties, including social housing and most new builds, are excluded.

A valid EPC is no longer mandatory for applications from 28 April 2026, although your installer must provide appropriate evidence of eligibility.

Step 2: Speak to MCS-Certified Installers

Ask one or more qualified installers to inspect your property and assess the heating system you need.

A proper survey should consider the home's heat loss, insulation, radiators, available outdoor space and hot-water requirements.

Request an itemised quote showing the proposed equipment, installation work, potential grant and the final amount you would pay.

Avoid comparing quotes by grant size alone: the design and inclusions can vary considerably.

Step 3: Confirm the Grant Amount

Standard BUS grants are:

• £7,500 for eligible air-to-water or ground source heat pumps.

• £2,500 for qualifying residential air-to-air heat pumps.

• £5,000 for eligible biomass boilers.

Certain off-gas-grid properties replacing oil or LPG heating may qualify for £9,000 towards an air-to-water or ground source heat pump until 31 March 2027.

For example, if an eligible system is quoted at £12,000 and receives a £7,500 grant, the illustrative balance would be £4,500.

Actual costs vary, and your installer should make the complete price and discount clear.

Step 4: Agree the Quote and Let the Installer Apply

Once you choose an installer and accept the quote, they submit the BUS voucher application to Ofgem on your behalf.

Ofgem will contact you to confirm that the installer has your consent to act for you.

Respond promptly and ensure your contact information is correct.

The scheme does not operate as a general cash reimbursement to homeowners.

The grant should appear as a reduction on the quotation and invoice.

Step 5: Complete the Installation and Keep Your Documents

Your installer arranges the installation, commissioning and relevant certification.

Under the current rules, heat-pump installations must be installed and commissioned within 120 days of the grant application.

Keep copies of the written quote, agreed scope, invoice and handover documents.

After the completed installation, your installer follows the Ofgem voucher redemption process.

Step 6: Get Help With Your Next Move

If you would like to apply for Boiler Upgrade Scheme support, Berks Insulation provides a starting point for checking available assistance and discussing an installation assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit the voucher application directly to Ofgem?

No. An MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf.

Is the grant paid into my bank account?

No. It is applied as a discount to eligible installation costs.

Do I have to receive benefits to qualify?

BUS is not generally a means-tested household-benefits scheme; property and installation criteria matter.

Final Thoughts

Applying for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme begins with the right installer, not a complicated personal grant form.

Confirm eligibility, compare detailed quotes and make sure the government discount is clearly shown before the work begins.