Divorced/Separated Parents: Who Can Apply for ECO4 Grant?

YES, both divorced parents can apply for ECO4 grants, but each must apply for their own separate property. If both parents own separate homes where they live, both can potentially qualify if they meet benefit and EPC eligibility criteria independently. You cannot apply for the same property twice, and you cannot apply for your ex-partner's property even if your children live there part-time.

ECO4 doesn't have a 'priority parent' system. Instead, each parent applies based on their own circumstances. The parent claiming Child Benefit typically has stronger eligibility because Child Benefit counts as a qualifying benefit. However, the non-resident parent (parent without Child Benefit) can still qualify through other benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or LA Flex pathways if they're in fuel poverty.

Not automatically. The parent with primary custody has advantages: they usually claim Child Benefit (a qualifying benefit) and Child Tax Credit, making ECO4 eligibility easier. However, they must still own or privately rent the property (with landlord permission), and the property must have an EPC rating of D-G. Primary custody alone doesn't guarantee qualification - benefit eligibility and property criteria must also be met.

YES, the non-resident parent (typically the parent without primary custody) can absolutely apply for ECO4 for their own home. They qualify if they receive qualifying benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, or if they're in fuel poverty and can access LA Flex. Being the non-resident parent doesn't disqualify you - your own benefit status and property EPC rating determine eligibility.

If your ex-partner claims Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit, you can still qualify for ECO4 through other routes: (1) Universal Credit if your income is low enough, (2) Housing Benefit if you're renting and income qualifies, (3) Disability benefits if applicable, (4) LA Flex if you're in fuel poverty (spending >10% income on energy), or (5) Low income LA Flex referral from your local council. Child-related benefits are just one pathway - not the only one.

YES, you can apply for ECO4 for your own home even if your children only visit on weekends or school holidays. ECO4 eligibility is based on YOUR residency, benefit status, and property ownership - not on whether children live there full-time. The key requirements are: (1) you own or rent the property, (2) you live there as your main residence, (3) you receive qualifying benefits, (4) property has EPC D-G rating.

Joint custody (50/50 time split) doesn't affect ECO4 applications. Each parent applies independently for their own home. The parent claiming Child Benefit (usually the primary resident) has easier qualification. The other parent qualifies through their own benefits. Both parents can potentially get free boilers at their separate homes if both meet eligibility criteria independently. Custody arrangement documentation isn't required for ECO4 - only benefit proof and property ownership.

If you received ECO4 as a married couple at your joint home, the boiler stays with the property. After divorce: (1) The parent who keeps the house keeps the boiler, (2) The parent who moves out can apply for ECO4 at their new property if they meet eligibility criteria, (3) You cannot reapply for the same property within the scheme's timeframe, (4) Your new individual circumstances (benefits, income, property) determine your new eligibility.

NO, you cannot both apply for ECO4 for the same property. Only one ECO4 grant per property is allowed. If you're separated but still cohabiting, you must decide which parent applies. Typically, the parent who owns the property or holds the tenancy agreement applies. If you jointly own, either can apply, but you'll need to agree. The household as a whole benefits from the single free boiler installation regardless of who officially applied.

Child maintenance payments are NOT counted as income for Universal Credit or ECO4 eligibility purposes. If you receive child maintenance, it doesn't disqualify you from benefits or ECO4. If you pay child maintenance, it doesn't increase your eligibility. ECO4 eligibility is determined by: (1) qualifying benefits you receive, (2) household income from employment/pensions, (3) property EPC rating. Child maintenance is separate from these calculations.

YES, you can apply if you're the main resident of a property you jointly own with your ex-partner. Requirements: (1) You must live in the property as your main residence, (2) You receive qualifying benefits, (3) Property has EPC rating D-G, (4) You can demonstrate you're responsible for the property and energy bills. Joint ownership doesn't prevent application - residency and benefit eligibility are the key factors. Your ex-partner's consent may be needed depending on ownership structure.

Required documentation: (1) Benefit award letters (Child Benefit, Universal Credit, etc.), (2) Proof of residency (council tax bill, utility bill in your name), (3) Property ownership proof (mortgage statement, deeds) or tenancy agreement, (4) Property EPC certificate (or we provide free assessment), (5) Photo ID (passport/driver's license). You do NOT need to provide: custody agreements, divorce decrees, child maintenance orders, or your ex-partner's information. Your individual circumstances are what matter.