New schemes and deadlines bring a rise in cold calls, texts and doorstep visits. These checks will help you tell a real offer from a scam.
Last reviewed 3 November 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with the UK Government
Five red flags
- An upfront fee to “secure” or “process” a grant or loan. No genuine scheme charges one.
- “You’ve been approved” when you never applied.
- Pressure to act now before a deadline or “last chance”.
- Claims of council or government approval on a cold call or doorstep visit.
- Requests for bank details by text, email or phone.
How the real schemes work
- Warm Homes loans come only from participating lenders, after normal credit checks.
- The Local Grant is applied for through GOV.UK, then your council contacts you.
- The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is claimed by your MCS installer, who takes it off your quote.
- The Warm Home Discount is paid automatically. Any email, text or call asking you to apply for it is a scam.
Before you sign
- Check the installer on the MCS register or TrustMark.
- Get at least two written quotes.
- Never sign on the doorstep. You normally have 14 days to cancel a contract agreed in your home.
Report it
- Forward scam texts free to 7726.
- Report fraud to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud).
- Tell your local Trading Standards through Citizens Advice.
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