What happens on an ECO4 survey visit: 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.

An ECO4 survey is a look around the home so an assessor can see the heating system, the loft, the walls and how the property is built. Knowing what to expect makes the visit less stressful. This checklist explains a typical survey day. It is general information from a Bury-based heating and insulation installer and does not guarantee funding.

1. Ask who is coming and how long they will stay

Before the appointment, ask for the visitor's name, the company they represent and roughly how long the visit will take. A straightforward survey is often under two hours, but a larger or harder-to-access home can take longer. Ask them to show identification when they arrive.

2. Be in, or arrange for another adult to be in

Someone responsible needs to let the surveyor in and show them around. If you cannot be there, arrange for another adult who knows the home and can answer questions about how you heat it.

3. Clear access to the loft, boiler and meters

Move boxes away from the loft hatch, leave the cupboard around the boiler open and make sure the gas and electricity meters can be reached. If the hatch is in a bedroom or above a landing, mention any access difficulties in advance.

4. Expect photographs and measurements

The surveyor will usually photograph the boiler, loft, walls, windows and meters, and may measure rooms. These photos support the technical file. Ask if you would rather certain rooms were not photographed, such as bedrooms with personal items on show, and tidy what you can.

5. A survey does not commit you to any work

A survey is an assessment, not a contract. You can ask questions, take time to think and say no. Do not feel pressured to sign anything on the day. If someone asks you to sign, read it carefully and keep a copy.

6. Prepare questions to ask

Useful questions include what measures are being considered and why, whether loft or wall insulation is part of the plan, who would do any work, how long an install would take, and what guarantees would be left with you. Write the answers down.

7. Ask what happens after the survey

Ask how and when you will hear the outcome, whether a further technical visit is needed, and who will contact you. Ask for the report or a written summary if one is produced. Keep the surveyor's contact details.

8. Look after your paperwork from the day

Note the date, the surveyor's name and any reference number. Store leaflets, consent forms and follow-up emails together so you can refer back if another company contacts you later.

9. Compare local delivery data

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.

10. Check eligibility

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.