Is your home or property in need of a central heating system? Are traditional or electric heating methods not doing the job or costing way too much every month? The FTCH (First Time Central Heating) grant may be just what you need. This grant is available for qualifying properties that have never had central heating before.
In this article, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about the first time central heating grant, explain how to apply and review eligibility requirements.
What Are First Time Central Heating Grants?
First Time Central Heating grants are a part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), a government program funded by utility companies. This grant aims to help eligible low-income households secure funding to install central heating in their homes and flats.
It is not a loan, and you will not be required to repay it, although the amount you receive can vary based on various factors such as your property size or number of bedrooms. The key goal is to help keep families warm during the winter months.
How Do You Qualify for the Grant?
Our experienced consultants can quickly and easily identify whether you may qualify for a grant and will go through some questions with you to determine your eligibility. Next, we will schedule a time with you for a technical survey to see if the proposed measure is suitable for your property. Following a comprehensive survey, our bookings team will inform you of any boiler grant options that you may qualify for.
To be eligible for full funding towards an FTCH installation, you must:
- Privately rent or own your own home
- Someone permanently living on the property must receive one or more benefits
- Have a heating system or a system that doesn’t involve a gas boiler and radiators
- Your home must have sufficient loft, and cavity wall insulation, we can arrange to have this installed for you if needed
- Your property must never have had central heating before – if your property has had central heating before, you may still qualify for a partial grant. Give us a call and we can advise how we can help.
Eligibility isn’t dependent on the size of the property, however, the amount of funding you receive will be based on the property size and the number of bedrooms in the home.
Eligible Heating Systems
Curious if your type of heating appliance qualifies? Here are all the heating types that do:
- Electric room heaters
- Electric storage heaters
- Warm air heaters
- Fossil fuel room heaters
- Biomass/wood
- Oil room heaters
- Also, having no heating element at all will get you a brand new Gas boiler and installation.
Tenant Eligibility
If you are living in a rental property, you may also be eligible to apply for the grant and can apply at any time. Grants are only available at properties with an EPC rating of D, E and F. Landlord permission is required when completing the grant application. Please get in touch if you have any questions about the application process or your eligibility.
What Are the Benefits of the FTCH Grant?
Are you unsure of whether you should apply for the FTCH grant? It’s essential to remember that there is no cost to apply. And getting the funding would lower your heating bills while providing you with a warmer and more comfortable home throughout the winter months.
Some of the benefits you will receive from an FTCH grant can include:
- An increase in the value of your property up to an extra (estimated) £10,000 – £15,000
- Fully guaranteed and fully warranted installs
- Gas-safe registration/installation operatives
- Reduced heating costs
- Increased comfort
- Industry-recognised/award-winning appliances
- A full installation and commissioning of the new system
What Parts and Services Does the Grant Cover?
Not only does the FTCH grant cover the main heating system, including the radiator and boiler, but it also covers fittings, installation, and any small parts and services you may need to get your new system up and running such as timers and controllers. The industry standards will be laid out when you qualify for installation, and we will handle all of the specifics of your installation.
Let Simply ECO Ltd Install Your New FTCH Funded Boiler
Simply Eco Ltd was established to assist people in fuel poverty gain access to Carbon Saving and Energy Efficiency Measures. We strive to provide the best customer service in our field and our excellent customer service record, testimonials and reviews reinforce that. Our key services include boiler replacements, under-floor insulation and loft insulation.
Call us for more information or use our online form. We will get back to you about our services and begin the process for your new central heating unit with the FTCH grant.
