How a Harlow Family Got a Free Boiler – and Finally Felt Warm Again
The Background
When Chelle first reached out to us, her family had already been trying to get help for a while. Living in a cold home, struggling with health problems that were only made worse by the conditions, she’d approached several providers, each time hoping this would be the one that could help.
When she came to Improveasy, our Head of Sales Simon was able to listen to her situation properly and get the process moving.
“I always keep an eye out for customers with health problems and cases where they’re having a hard time,” said Simon. “Chelle’s case was one we wanted to progress as quickly as we could.”
What Was Installed
- Combi boiler conversion
- Smart thermostat
- Radiator optimisation devices (rad bots)
The Process – Step by Step
This installation involved more coordination than a standard job. Here’s how it came together.
Initial enquiry: Chelle found Improveasy through a Google search and completed a short online enquiry form.
Eligibility discussion: We contacted Chelle to discuss her property details, household circumstances, and qualifying criteria under the scheme.
Medical qualification: Chelle provided supporting medical evidence, which was reviewed by our independent NHS doctor. Following assessment, her eligibility was confirmed.
Evidence collection: An Improveasy representative visited the property to gather documentation, complete required paperwork, and ensure everything was fully compliant.
Technical survey: A retrofit survey assessed the property’s current condition and identified suitable energy efficiency improvements.
Assessment & modelling: Our technical team modelled the property to confirm which measures qualified under scheme guidelines.
Proposal confirmed: We contacted Chelle to explain exactly what her home qualified for, what the installation would involve, and the expected timescales. She confirmed she was happy to proceed.
Local authority approval: All documentation was submitted to Harlow Council for review and formal approval. This stage required coordination between Improveasy, the council, and Chris Vince MP’s office, all working together on Chelle’s behalf.
Installation complete: Dan and Dean, our two installers, worked through without a break to complete the full job in a single day.
In Chelle’s Own Words
"I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved. The two installers, Dan and Dean, worked exceptionally hard and remained on site without taking breaks to ensure the installation was completed in one day, this was very much appreciated. A special thank you also to Simon, who went above and beyond, including bringing the installation date forward. Having heating restored has made an immediate and significant difference, and it genuinely feels like a new home. This outcome means a great deal to both me and my family."
Why This Story Matters
Cases like Chelle’s are exactly what schemes like the ECO4 Flex were designed for. When someone is living in a cold home and their health is being affected, a fully funded installation isn’t just a home improvement, it’s a lifeline.
What made this case stand out wasn’t just the outcome. It was the level of coordination involved. Harlow Council, Chris Vince MP’s office, multiple health and social care agencies, and our own team all had a role to play.
To anyone on the outside, it might have looked like a routine installation. To us, and to Chelle, it was anything but.
A note on local authority approvals
Chelle’s case also highlights something important: where health grounds are involved, the speed of local authority sign-off can have a real impact on vulnerable households. The process to secure council approval in Chelle’s case took time, time during which her family was still living in a cold home. Improveasy works hard to make our own coordination as smooth as possible, and we continue to work closely with local authorities to move cases forward as quickly as we can. Swift sign-offs matter.
Harlow Council’s Cllr Kay Morrison celebrated the joint effort, noting:
‘Such a good outcome, making a huge difference to this family’s lives. Thanks to everybody who facilitated the solution!’
Could You Qualify?
If your home has poor heating and you or someone in your household has a health condition that is made worse by the cold, there may be support available to you.
Government funding schemes have helped thousands of families across England access fully funded heating and energy efficiency improvements.
You can look into the schemes currently running here:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is funding still available for a free boiler installation?
Government schemes have historically provided fully funded heating improvements, including new boilers, to eligible households. Funding availability changes over time as schemes open and close. Get in touch with our team and we’ll let you know what’s currently available and whether you’re likely to qualify. Or view our Energy Grants Scheme here.
What was ECO4 Flex?
ECO4 Flex was a route within the government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme that allowed local authorities to refer households for support even if they didn’t meet standard income criteria. For example, because of a health condition made worse by a cold or damp home. ECO4 has now closed. Our team can advise on what funding options are currently available.
Can I get help with my heating on health grounds?
Potentially, yes. Certain government schemes have allowed households where someone has a health condition worsened by cold or damp to be referred for fully funded improvements. Additionally, our team offers financed solutions. Get in touch and our team will advise.
How long does the process take?
Timescales vary depending on property surveys, documentation requirements, and local authority approval, if the work is being done in partnership with the council or funding is involved. Our team will keep you updated throughout and work to progress your case as quickly as possible.
Does it really cost nothing?
For households that qualify under eligible government schemes, installations are fully funded, there is no cost to you. Eligibility is always confirmed before any work begins.
What happens after I enquire?
One of our team will be in touch to discuss your circumstances and let you know whether your household is likely to qualify or if you would be interested in finance. If it looks like you might be eligible, we’ll guide you through the next steps at your own pace.
Contact us today
Get in touch to discover how our energy solutions can lower your bills and improve your home.
