Heat pump rules are changing: how to reduce the cost of installation

The rules around installing a heat pump will change on 29 May, making it easier for some homeowners. We look at how much a heat pump costs, how the £7,500 government grant works, and other discounts available

Heat pumps
(Image credit: Getty Images)

The heat pump installation rules will change on 29 May, potentially making it easier and quicker for homeowners to switch from gas boilers.

As part of the government’s Warm Homes Plan, heat pumps will no longer need to be installed at least one metre from a property boundary, and larger air source heat pumps will be allowed under permitted development rights.

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Ruth Emery author headshot
Ruth Emery

Ruth Emery installed a heat pump in her home six months ago. She qualified for the £7,500 government grant, part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Ruth has shared five lessons she's learnt after getting a heat pump in a separate article.

Ruth Emery
Contributing editor

Ruth is an award-winning financial journalist with more than 15 years' experience of working on national newspapers, websites and specialist magazines.

She is passionate about helping people feel more confident about their finances. She was previously editor of Times Money Mentor, and prior to that was deputy Money editor at The Sunday Times. 

A multi-award winning journalist, Ruth started her career on a pensions magazine at the FT Group, and has also worked at Money Observer and Money Advice Service. 

Outside of work, she is a mum to two young children, while also serving as a magistrate and an NHS volunteer.