Short answer: Yes.
If you or someone in your household has asthma, you may be eligible for free energy-saving home upgrades under UK Government schemes such as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). These grants help vulnerable households improve energy efficiency, lower bills, and create healthier living conditions.
But eligibility isn’t always straightforward. Read on to find out what you need to know about qualifying through health conditions like asthma and how you can apply. Or, dive right in and use our free eligibility now to see if you qualify in 60 seconds or less.
How Does Asthma Qualify for ECO4 and GBIS?
Asthma is a respiratory condition that can be worsened by cold, damp, and poorly insulated homes—all of which increase the risk of attacks and other health complications. The UK Government recognises this, which is why asthma is listed as a qualifying condition for energy efficiency grants.
There are two main ways asthma can make you eligible:
1. ECO4 Flex Route (Health-Based Applications)
Ofgem have included a health-based eligibility route to accessing grants and asthma is a qualifying health condition because it is aggravated by cold, damp, and mouldy living conditions.
Read more: What other health conditions qualify for ECO4 and GBIS grants?
2. Receiving Qualifying Benefits
If you or someone in your household has asthma and is already receiving certain qualifying benefits (such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Universal Credit), you may be eligible for a grant without needing a NHS referral.
What Upgrades Can You Get With These Grants?
If your household qualifies, you could receive:
Free insulation (loft, cavity wall, internal wall, flat roof, or room-in-roof insulation)
Heating system upgrades (boiler replacements, heat pumps, or first-time central heating installations)
Ventilation improvements (to reduce damp and mould risks, which can trigger asthma symptoms)
Grants under GBIS focus on insulation, while ECO4 covers a wider range of heating and insulation measures.
Check what grants you can get now by answering a few questions on our Free Grant Checker
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a grant if my child has asthma?
Yes! If a child or any household member has asthma, your home may be eligible for funding under the ECO4 of GBIS grant schemes. You will need to obtain a NHS referral to support your application.
Is a GP letter required for an asthma-related application?
Yes you’ll need a NHS Referral from a qualified GP to access funding.
Does my local council support asthma applications?
Not all councils participate in ECO4 and GBIS Flex, and some charge fees that make Flex applications unworkable but our free grant checker makes the process very easy and after you have answered a few questions we’ll let you know if we can submit health applications in your area.
Can I get help if I don’t receive benefits but have asthma?
Yes you could! If your home is poorly insulated, you can qualify through ECO4 Flex or GBIS insulation grants through the flexible energy mechanism. There is also a General group to GBIS if you don’t have asthma or any other health issues.
How do I apply?
Use our free grant checker to see what’s available for your household: Check Eligibility Now
Free grant checker
Find Out If You Qualify Now
Energy companies are funding home upgrades, but these grants will end once they’ve met their legal obligations—so they won’t be around for long.
Final Thoughts
Asthma can make you eligible for energy-saving grants under ECO4 and GBIS, but it depends on your council’s policies and whether you receive qualifying benefits. While ECO4 Flex is an option, the cost of council declarations can sometimes make applications difficult.