What Grants Are Available for Replacing Windows in the UK?

1st May 2025

Replacing windows in your home can make a huge difference. New windows can improve energy efficiency, make your home warmer, and even increase your property’s value. But they can also be a big expense. So, if you’re thinking about upgrading your windows, you might be wondering – are there any grants available to help with the cost? In this guide, we’ll take a close look at the grants that are available for replacing windows in the UK. We’ll cover how these grants work, who qualifies, and how you can apply.

Table of Contents

Why Would You Want to Replace Your Windows?

Before we get into the details of grants, it’s worth looking at why you might want to replace your windows in the first place. There are a few good reasons:

Energy Efficiency: Modern double or triple glazing is far more efficient than older single-pane windows. That means your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer, which can cut your energy bills.
Better Security: Newer windows often come with better locks and stronger glass, which can make your home more secure.
Reduced Noise: If you live in a busy area, new windows with good soundproofing can make your home much quieter.
Improved Appearance: Old, worn-out windows can make your home look dated. New windows can give it a fresh, modern look.

But while new windows can be a great investment, they’re not cheap. That’s where grants can help.

Are There Any Government Grants for Window Replacement in the UK?

Yes, there are a few government grants and schemes that can help you with the cost of replacing your windows. These are usually aimed at making homes more energy-efficient, which means they often cover things like double glazing or triple glazing. Let’s look at some of the main options.

ECO4 Scheme (Energy Company Obligation)

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government scheme that requires large energy companies to help households improve their energy efficiency. This scheme is now in its fourth phase, known as ECO4.

Who Can Get It? The ECO4 scheme is aimed at low-income households or those that are considered to be at risk of fuel poverty. This includes people who receive certain benefits, like Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Child Tax Credit.
What Does It Cover? The scheme covers a range of energy efficiency measures, including window replacement. If your existing windows are old and inefficient, you could qualify for free or subsidised replacement windows.
How to Apply: You’ll need to contact one of the energy companies that are part of the scheme. They’ll check if you’re eligible and arrange for an assessment of your home.

Green Homes Grant (Discontinued, but Worth Knowing)

You may have heard of the Green Homes Grant, which was a government scheme that offered vouchers for energy efficiency improvements, including double glazing. Unfortunately, this scheme was discontinued in March 2021. But it’s still worth mentioning because some people may still have vouchers they haven’t used yet.

Who Could Get It? Homeowners and landlords in England were eligible if they applied before the deadline.
What Did It Cover? The grant covered a range of energy efficiency improvements, including window replacement.
Can You Still Use It? If you were issued a voucher under the scheme, you may still be able to use it, depending on the expiry date.

Local Authority Grants

Many local councils offer grants or financial support for energy efficiency improvements, including window replacement. These schemes vary widely depending on where you live.

Who Can Get Them? It depends on your local council’s rules. Some schemes are only for low-income households, while others are available to anyone who wants to make their home more energy-efficient.
What Do They Cover? This also varies, but in many cases, they can help with the cost of double glazing, triple glazing, or secondary glazing.
How to Apply: You’ll need to check your local council’s website to see what’s available in your area.

Are There Any Other Schemes That Can Help With Window Replacement Costs?

In addition to government grants, there are a few other options that could help you cover the cost of replacing your windows.

Home Improvement Loans

Some local councils offer low-interest home improvement loans to help homeowners pay for energy efficiency upgrades, including new windows. These loans are usually paid back over several years, making them a more affordable way to spread the cost.

Landlord Energy Efficiency Grants

If you’re a landlord, you may be able to access grants or loans to make your rental properties more energy-efficient. This is particularly important because landlords now have to meet minimum energy efficiency standards for their properties.

Energy Supplier Schemes

In addition to the ECO4 scheme, some energy suppliers offer their own energy efficiency schemes. These can include discounts or cashback on new windows, or free installation for eligible customers.

What Types of Windows Are Eligible for Grants?

The type of windows you can get under a grant depends on the scheme. But in most cases, the focus is on energy-efficient windows, such as:

Double Glazing: Two layers of glass with a gap in between for insulation.
Triple Glazing: Three layers of glass for even better insulation.
Secondary Glazing: Adding an extra layer of glass to your existing windows.
Energy-Efficient Frames: UPVC, aluminium, or timber frames with good thermal performance.

If your current windows are single glazed or old and draughty, you’re more likely to qualify for a grant.

How Do You Apply for a Window Replacement Grant?

Applying for a grant to replace your windows is usually a straightforward process, but the steps can vary depending on the scheme. Here’s a general idea of what you need to do:

Check Eligibility: Look at the requirements for each scheme and make sure you qualify.
Contact the Scheme Provider: For the ECO4 scheme, this means contacting one of the participating energy companies. For local council grants, check their website or give them a call.
Get an Assessment: In many cases, someone will need to visit your home to assess your current windows and check that you qualify for a grant.
Get a Quote: If you’re approved, you may need to get a quote from an approved installer.
Complete the Work: Once everything is agreed, the new windows can be installed.
Claim the Grant: Depending on the scheme, you may need to provide proof that the work has been done to claim the grant.

What If You Don’t Qualify for a Grant?

If you don’t qualify for any of the grants we’ve mentioned, you still have options. Here are a few things to consider:

Look for Local Schemes: Some councils offer grants for energy efficiency improvements that aren’t tied to income.
Check with Your Energy Supplier: They may offer discounts or finance options for energy-efficient upgrades.
Consider a Home Improvement Loan: If you can’t get a grant, a low-interest loan could help you spread the cost of replacing your windows.
Look for Installer Discounts: Some window installers offer their own discounts or finance options.

Are New Windows Really Worth the Cost?

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth going to the trouble of replacing your windows, it’s important to look at the benefits:

Lower Energy Bills: New windows can significantly reduce heat loss, which means you spend less on heating your home.
Increased Comfort: Your home will be warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Improved Security: Modern windows come with better locks and stronger glass.
Higher Property Value: Upgraded windows can make your home more attractive to buyers.

Even if you can’t get a grant, replacing your windows can be a smart investment in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right grant for window replacement in the UK can take a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort. Whether you qualify for the ECO4 scheme, a local council grant, or something else, a grant can help you cover the cost of new, energy-efficient windows.

Start by checking if you qualify for any of the schemes we’ve mentioned, and don’t forget to see what’s available from your local council. And even if you don’t qualify for a grant, remember that there are still ways to make new windows more affordable.

Need help with replacing your windows? Make sure you choose a reliable, experienced installer to ensure your new windows are fitted properly and work as they should.

Are you looking for double glazing in Northampton? If so then Dunstable Glass are your number 1 glass supplier. Contact us today by telephone at 01296 906064 or by using our online contact form.