If you’re looking to make your home more energy efficient and reduce your energy bills, the ECO4 scheme could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. But before any work can begin, you’ll need to complete an ECO4 retrofit assessment—a crucial first step in accessing funding for home upgrades.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a retrofit assessment is, why it’s important, and how to apply through the ECO4 scheme in the UK.
What is an ECO4 Retrofit Assessment?
A retrofit assessment is a detailed survey of your home carried out by a qualified assessor. It looks at your property’s current energy efficiency, heating systems, insulation levels, and building structure to determine the most suitable energy-saving measures.
Under the ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation Phase 4), this assessment is used to create a tailored improvement plan—designed to make your home warmer, greener, and cheaper to run.
Why Do You Need One?
The assessment ensures:
- Your home gets the right upgrades based on its current condition.
- Installations meet PAS 2035 standards (the official UK retrofit framework).
- ECO4 funding is allocated correctly and efficiently.
You cannot receive ECO4-funded improvements without a retrofit assessment.
How to Apply for an ECO4 Retrofit Assessment
Here’s how to get started:
1. Check Your Eligibility
You may qualify if:
- You receive benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Housing Benefit.
- Your home has a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G).
- You qualify under LA Flex (Local Authority Flexible Eligibility) criteria.
2. Find an Approved ECO4 Provider
Look for a government-approved ECO4 installer or energy efficiency company. Many offer free eligibility checks and will arrange your assessment if you qualify.
3. Book Your Retrofit Assessment
A qualified Retrofit Assessor will visit your home to:
- Review the building’s structure and insulation
- Assess ventilation, heating systems, and energy use
- Identify any risks or structural concerns
This process takes a couple of hours and is often free of charge if you're eligible under the scheme.
4. Receive Your Retrofit Plan
Following the assessment, you’ll be given a bespoke improvement plan, known as a Medium-Term Improvement Plan (MTIP). This outlines the upgrades suitable for your home—such as insulation, heating systems, or renewable energy solutions.
5. Approve the Works
Once you’ve reviewed and approved the plan, ECO4 installers can carry out the upgrades—usually with little to no cost to you.
What’s Included in ECO4 Retrofit Upgrades?
Depending on your property and eligibility, ECO4 can fund:
- Loft, cavity wall, and underfloor insulation
- Electric storage heaters or heat pump installations
- Solar PV panels
- Smart controls and ventilation improvements
When Should You Apply?
The sooner the better. ECO4 funding is limited, and demand is growing due to rising energy prices. If you’re eligible, act now to secure your free assessment and home upgrades.
Final Thoughts
A retrofit assessment is the gateway to accessing thousands of pounds worth of energy-saving upgrades under the ECO4 scheme. It’s free for eligible households and can lead to major improvements in comfort, efficiency, and cost savings.
Key Takeaways:
- ECO4 retrofit assessments are required to access free or subsidised home improvements.
- The assessment identifies the most suitable upgrades for your property.
- Eligibility is based on benefits, income, EPC rating, or LA Flex criteria.
- The process is simple, and assessments are often free for qualifying households.
Want to check your eligibility or book an ECO4 assessment?
Contact us today or visiteco4surveyors.co.uk/ to start your application.