ECO4 Scams Guide: How to Spot Fake Energy Grant Offers

Worried about an energy grant letter or cold call? Learn how to identify genuine schemes and avoid common scams.

What is the ECO4 scheme?

ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation 4) is a genuine UK government-mandated programme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in eligible homes. Measures include insulation, heating upgrades, ventilation, and in some cases renewable technology.

The scheme targets low-income and vulnerable households, typically those receiving qualifying benefits or identified via local authority flexible eligibility (LA Flex). Properties rated EPC D, E, F or G are usually prioritised.

Are ECO4 grants legitimate?

Yes. ECO4 is a real programme backed by the UK government and regulated by Ofgem. Thousands of homes have received genuine support through the scheme since it launched.

However, the popularity of ECO4 has attracted scammers who use the scheme name to mislead homeowners. Some offer "free" installations with hidden costs, perform substandard work, or collect personal data for fraudulent purposes. Knowing how to tell the difference is essential.

Common ECO4 scams to watch out for

Unsolicited cold calls claiming you are "pre-approved"
Legitimate schemes do not cold call to tell you that you have been approved. Eligibility requires a proper assessment.
Letters demanding urgent action or threatening loss of entitlement
Scam letters create false urgency. Genuine ECO4 funding does not expire based on responding to a single letter.
Requests for upfront payment or bank details
ECO4-funded measures should not require upfront payment from qualifying households. Never share bank details with unsolicited callers.
Door-to-door salespeople pressuring immediate sign-up
Reputable installers give you time to consider, provide written quotes, and never pressure same-day decisions.
Companies with no TrustMark registration
All ECO4 installers must be TrustMark registered. If a company cannot provide their registration number, walk away.
Promises of guaranteed funding without assessing your home
No one can guarantee funding without confirming your eligibility, EPC rating, and property suitability through proper assessment.

How to identify genuine installers

A legitimate ECO4 installer will:

Be registered on the TrustMark scheme and provide their registration number
Hold PAS 2030 / PAS 2035 certification for the measures being installed
Carry out a proper pre-installation survey before committing to work
Provide a written quote and contract with clear terms
Never demand upfront payment for ECO4-funded measures
Allow you time to verify their credentials before proceeding
Be willing to provide references or evidence of previous installations

What to do if you’ve received a suspicious letter

Do not respond immediately. Take time to check the details.
Search for the company name online and check for reviews and complaints.
Verify TrustMark registration at trustmark.org.uk.
Contact your local authority energy team for guidance on genuine local schemes.
If in doubt, report the letter to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or your local Trading Standards.
Never share financial details, National Insurance numbers, or benefit information with unverified contacts.

What legitimate providers should never ask for

Upfront payment or a "deposit" before ECO4-funded work begins
Bank account or card details over the phone or by text
Your National Insurance number via cold call or email
Immediate sign-up with no cooling-off period
Access to your home without prior written agreement and proper ID

Received an Energy Funding Service Letter?

Some homeowners have reported receiving letters from companies calling themselves “energy funding services” or similar names, offering free insulation or boiler replacements. While some of these may be genuine intermediaries working with approved installers, others are not.

How to check if they are genuine

Search for the company on Companies House to confirm they are a registered business.
Check their TrustMark registration or ask which TrustMark-registered installer they work with.
Look for independent reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or similar platforms.
Contact your local council energy team to ask whether the scheme is recognised.

Steps to take before responding

Do not call back using a number in the letter without verifying it independently.
Check your eligibility through an independent source like our free checker.
Ask the company for their TrustMark registration and installing contractor details in writing.
Take your time. Genuine funding will not disappear because you took a week to verify.

How to verify if you may qualify for a genuine energy grant

Use our free checker to see if you may qualify for genuine energy-saving schemes. The checker asks a few questions about your home, EPC rating, and circumstances, then shows which schemes may be worth exploring further.

Check Your Eligibility

Results are for guidance only. Final eligibility is confirmed by the scheme provider, your local authority, and a certified installer.

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ECO4 eligibility checker

See if you may qualify for ECO4

Energy Checker home

All tools and grant guides

This page provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Eligibility for government-backed schemes is subject to current programme rules and verification by approved installers. Energy Checker is an independent guidance website. We are not a government body and do not approve grant applications.

Frequently asked questions

Are ECO4 grants a scam?

No. ECO4 is a genuine, government-backed scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for eligible households. However, some unscrupulous companies use the ECO4 name to mislead homeowners with fake offers, pressure tactics, or poor-quality installations.

Are government energy grant letters legitimate?

Some are, some are not. Genuine schemes do sometimes contact eligible households by post. However, scammers also send letters designed to look official. A legitimate letter will never demand immediate payment, threaten loss of entitlement, or ask for bank details upfront.

How do I know if an installer is approved?

Approved ECO4 installers must be TrustMark registered and hold appropriate PAS certifications. You can verify an installer on the TrustMark website. MCS certification is also required for heat pump and solar installations under funded schemes.

Can I check if I qualify online?

Yes. You can use a free eligibility checker to get an initial indication of whether you may qualify for ECO4 or similar schemes based on your property, EPC rating, and household circumstances. Final eligibility is confirmed by an approved installer and your energy supplier.

What should I do if I think I’ve been targeted by a scam?

Do not share personal or financial information. Report the approach to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) and your local Trading Standards office. If work has already been carried out, contact Citizens Advice for support on next steps.

Not sure if a grant offer is genuine?

Check your eligibility through our free, independent tool and see which schemes may genuinely apply to your home.

Check Your Eligibility