If your home is cold, your energy bills are rising, and your windows and doors have seen better days, help might be available. The free windows and doors grant UK, offered through the government’s ECO4 scheme and could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.

But who exactly qualifies for it? This blog breaks it down in simple terms and shows how UK households are already benefiting from this grant.

What Is the Free Windows and Doors Grant UK?

The free doors and windows grant comes under the UK's Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme. It is created to enhance domestic energy efficiency, particularly for households facing fuel poverty. Replacing outdated, less efficient doors and windows is one of the prominent upgrades included under this scheme.

By replacing old units with energy-efficient units, homes save on heat loss, energy costs, and can enjoy a warmer, cozier home.

What Is the ECO4 Scheme?

The ECO4 scheme is the fourth part of the Energy Company Obligation scheme. Existing from 2022 to 2026, this government-sponsored scheme compels major energy providers to pay for energy-saving work in low-income or vulnerable properties.

Some of the upgrades offered include:

• Loft and cavity wall insulation
  
  

• Air source heat pumps
  
  

• Solar panel installation
  
  

• Window and door replacements
  
  

It’s not a loan. You don’t have to repay it. This grant is 100% free if you qualify.

Who Qualifies for the Free Windows and Doors Grant?

1. Household Income

The scheme targets low-income households. To qualify, you must either:

• Have a combined household income under £31,000, or
  
  

• Be receiving certain government benefits (listed below)
  
  

2. Receiving Eligible Benefits

You may qualify if someone in your household receives any of the following:

• Universal Credit
  
  

• Income Support
  
  

• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
  
  

• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  
  

• Pension Credit
  
  

• Housing Benefit
  
  

• Tax Credits (Working or Child Tax Credit)
  
  

These advantages enable energy suppliers and grant providers to spot vulnerable homes which would be helped most by improved insulation and heating.

3. Poor Energy Efficiency Rating

Your house must have a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating—usually E, F, or G. These are the lowest energy ratings. You can find out your home's EPC online with your postcode on the UK government's EPC register.

If your EPC rating is very good anyway (A to C), you probably won't qualify since the focus is on assisting homes that lose most of their energy at the windows, doors, and insulation.

4. Homeownership or Private Renting

Both homeowners and private tenants can apply. However:

• If you rent, your landlord must give permission for any work.
  
  

• The property must be your main residence, not a holiday home or second property.
  
  

• Social housing tenants might not be eligible unless the property is extremely inefficient.

Real-World Example: The Harris Family from Manchester

The Harris household resided in a 3-bedroomed semi-detached property in Greater Manchester. With two young children, they were finding it difficult to keep the house warm and reasonably priced during winter. The EPC rating of their property was an F, and they were claiming Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit.

They applied through a local energy efficiency provider. Within weeks, the family had their old single-glazed windows replaced with energy-efficient double glazing and their front door swapped for an insulated composite door.

Result: Their annual energy bills dropped by nearly £300, and the house felt warmer, even without constantly using the heating.

How to Apply for the Grant

If you think you might qualify, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Check Eligibility
   Use an online eligibility checker from a trusted ECO4 provider. These are usually free and quick to complete.
   
   

2. Book a Survey
   If you’re eligible, a surveyor will visit your home to check your windows, doors, and overall energy performance.
   
   

3. Get Approval
   The installer submits your case for approval under the ECO4 scheme. Once approved, work is scheduled.
   
   

4. Installation
   A certified team replaces your windows and doors—usually within a day or two—with minimal disruption.

Case Study: Maria, a Pensioner in Bristol

Maria, a 68-year-old pensioner living alone, qualified for the free windows and doors grant UK through her Pension Credit. Her property, a 1960s bungalow, had outdated windows that let in cold drafts.

After applying through a local scheme, her windows were replaced at no cost. She said, "I used to wear three jumpers just to stay warm. Now, I barely touch the heating."

What If You Don’t Receive Benefits?

If you’re not on government benefits but still earn less than £31,000 a year, you might still qualify under what’s called the LA Flex (Local Authority Flexible Eligibility). This is a version of the ECO4 scheme where councils can use their discretion to help households that don’t meet the standard criteria but still need support.

For example, some councils include residents with long-term health issues affected by cold homes or households with children under five.

Why This Grant Matters More Than Ever

With energy prices still high and the UK pushing for net-zero emissions, improving your home’s energy efficiency is critical. Many homes in the UK still have old, single-glazed windows and poorly insulated doors. These are a major cause of heat loss.

By taking advantage of the free windows and doors grant UK, you’re not just cutting bills—you’re investing in a healthier, warmer living space and contributing to a greener future.

Final Thoughts

If you’re living in a cold home, dealing with high energy bills, or just want to make your property more efficient, the ECO4 scheme could be your lifeline. The free windows and doors grant UK is helping thousands of households upgrade their homes without paying a penny.

Don’t wait. Eligibility depends on income, benefits, and property type—but it only takes a few minutes to check. Contact a registered ECO4 provider in your area, or visit your local council’s website for details.