Cottages
Heat pumps for cottages
Cottages are often off-grid and oil-heated — which means a heat pump can both cut running costs and unlock the higher £9,000 grant.
Heat pumps for: Detached Semi-detached Terraced Cottage Victorian New build Bungalow Flat
Cottages tend to be older, rural, and frequently off the gas grid — heated by oil or LPG. That combination actually makes them strong heat pump candidates: switching from oil or LPG usually cuts running costs, and off-grid oil/LPG homes can claim the higher £9,000 grant during the uplift window.
What matters most for cottages
- Solid walls and older fabric. Cottages often lose more heat, so insulation improvements and a well-sized system matter. Listed cottages may need consent — see below.
- Off-grid fuel. Replacing oil or LPG often saves money and unlocks the £9,000 grant. See oil boiler replacement.
- Listed status. Many older cottages are listed, which can require listed building consent for the outdoor unit's position.
Typical size and cost
| Typical system size | Before grant | After £7,500 grant |
|---|---|---|
| 6–12 kW | £11,000–£20,000 | £2,000–£12,500 |
Get a tailored figure with the cost calculator, or read the full cost guide.
Common questions
Can a cottage have a heat pump?
Yes. Cottages — often older, rural and off-grid — can work well, especially as switching from oil or LPG saves money and may unlock the higher £9,000 grant. Solid walls may need insulation.
Do off-grid cottages get a bigger grant?
If currently heated by oil or LPG, yes — off-gas-grid homes can claim £9,000 instead of £7,500 between 21 July 2026 and 31 March 2027.
What about listed cottages?
Listed cottages can usually have a heat pump but may need listed building consent, particularly for where the outdoor unit sits. An installer experienced with heritage homes will advise.
Are old cottages too draughty for a heat pump?
No, but heat loss is higher, so a larger system and some insulation may be recommended. With the right design they're heated comfortably.
See the cost for your home
The calculator sizes a system for your property type and applies the grant — an instant estimate, no contact details needed.