Flats and leasehold homes looking at ECO4: a UK household checklist (2026)

Guide by ApplyFreeBoiler.uk (Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd), a heating and insulation installer in Bury, Greater Manchester. We are not the government, Ofgem or an energy supplier.

Heating and insulation work in a flat or leasehold home can involve more people than work in a freehold house. Walls, roofs and communal areas are often shared or owned by someone else, so permissions matter. This checklist is general information from ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, a heating and insulation installer in Bury. It is not legal advice. Check your lease, and speak to your freeholder, managing agent or a solicitor if you are unsure. It does not guarantee funding.

1. Read your lease

Your lease sets out what you own and what belongs to the freeholder. Outside walls, the roof and communal areas are commonly kept by the freeholder, while the inside of the flat is usually yours, but every lease is different.

2. Ask the freeholder or managing agent early

Work to outside walls, the roof, or anything that changes the outside of the building may need written consent. Contact the freeholder or managing agent before the survey so you know what they will allow.

3. Boiler flues and outside pipes

A new boiler may need its flue or condensate pipe to pass through an outside wall. Ask the surveyor where these would go and whether the freeholder needs to agree.

4. Shared walls and roofs

Some insulation measures only make sense if the whole wall or roof is treated. Ask the installer whether the work affects neighbours' flats and whether their agreement is needed.

5. Communal areas and access

Install day may involve carrying equipment through shared hallways, stairwells or lifts. Check any building rules on access times, parking and protecting shared areas.

6. Tell your neighbours

Let neighbours know when work is planned, especially if there may be noise, drilling or deliveries. It helps to keep relationships good in a shared building.

7. Keep copies of consents

Keep written consents, the survey report and the installer's paperwork together. They may be asked for if you later sell or extend your lease.

8. Check funding and local figures

See ECO measures by council on ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, built from DESNZ Household Energy Efficiency statistics, to see how many ECO measures have been installed in your local authority area. Use the ApplyFreeBoiler.uk eligibility check to see whether an ECO4 heating or insulation pathway may be available for your home in England, Scotland or Wales. ECO4 is due to close on 31 December 2026.