Important Notice
This is an independent information service. All information is sourced from GOV.UK and Ofgem publications. We are not government representatives. Always verify your eligibility through official channels or approved installers.
What is the Great British Insulation Scheme?
According to GOV.UK, the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a government programme that requires energy suppliers to install insulation measures in eligible homes across Great Britain. It was formerly known as ECO+ and launched in 2023.
Unlike ECO4, which focuses on low-income households, GBIS has a broader eligibility route through its General Group — meaning homeowners in lower Council Tax bands may qualify regardless of their income or benefit status.
The scheme focuses specifically on insulation measures rather than heating systems. According to Ofgem, the aim is to help around 300,000 of the least energy-efficient homes in Great Britain.
GBIS at a Glance
- Launched: 2023 (formerly ECO+)
- Covers: Insulation measures only
- Eligibility: General Group (Council Tax band) or Low Income Group (benefits)
- Geography: England, Scotland, and Wales
- Cost: Free for qualifying households
Two Routes to Eligibility
According to Ofgem, GBIS has two eligibility groups. You only need to qualify through one.
General Group
Based on your Council Tax band and property insulation needs — no benefits required.
- Council Tax band A-D (England) or A-E (Scotland/Wales)
- Property needs specific insulation measures
- Owner-occupiers, private tenants, or social housing tenants
Low Income Group
Based on receiving qualifying benefits — similar to ECO4 eligibility.
- Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Housing Benefit
- Income Support, ESA, or JSA
- Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
What Insulation Does GBIS Cover?
Cavity Wall Insulation
For properties built 1920s-1990s with unfilled cavity walls. Quick to install, minimal disruption.
Full guide →Loft Insulation
Top-up or full installation to the recommended 270mm depth. The most cost-effective energy improvement.
Full guide →Solid Wall Insulation
Internal or external insulation for pre-1920s properties without cavity walls.
Full guide →Flat Roof Insulation
For properties with flat roofs where standard loft insulation is not applicable.
Underfloor Insulation
Reduces heat loss through suspended timber floors, common in older properties.
Room-in-Roof Insulation
For converted loft spaces where standard loft insulation cannot be used.
GBIS vs ECO4: What's the Difference?
| GBIS | ECO4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Council Tax band OR benefits | Income or benefits only |
| Measures | Insulation only | Insulation + heating + controls |
| Target | Broader — lower CT bands | Focused — fuel-poor households |
| Geography | England, Scotland, Wales | England, Scotland, Wales |
You may qualify for both. If you're eligible for both GBIS and ECO4, an approved installer can advise on which scheme is most beneficial for your property. You cannot receive the same measure under both schemes, but different measures may be funded through different schemes.
Check Your Insulation Grant Eligibility
Quick eligibility check for GBIS and ECO4 insulation grants. Many homeowners in Council Tax bands A-D may qualify.
Key Eligibility Factors:
- Low-income household
- Property EPC rating D-G
- Owner-occupier or private tenant
Get comprehensive property analysis with grant recommendations, savings estimates, and installer connections.
Full Property AnalysisGet Connected with GBIS Installers
We'll connect you with approved installers who can assess your property and confirm your eligibility for free insulation through GBIS.
No obligation. We'll connect you with approved GBIS installers in your area.
How to Get Free Insulation Through GBIS
Check Eligibility
Confirm your Council Tax band or benefit status. Properties in bands A-D (England) typically qualify.
Contact Installer
Find an approved installer participating in GBIS. They'll confirm eligibility and arrange a survey.
Property Survey
A qualified surveyor assesses your property to determine which insulation measures are suitable.
Free Installation
Approved installers carry out the work at no cost to eligible households, with quality guarantees.
Related Guides
ECO4 Scheme
Free insulation and heating upgrades for low-income households. Closing March 2026.
Read guide →All Free Insulation Schemes
Complete guide to every route to free insulation in the UK — ECO4, GBIS, LA Flex, and more.
Read guide →Improve Your EPC Rating
How insulation improvements affect your EPC rating and what that means for grants and property value.
Read guide →Could You Get Free Insulation?
GBIS eligibility is broader than most people think. If you're in Council Tax bands A-D, it's worth checking.