The UK government has recently lifted a key planning restriction, making it easier for homeowners to install heat pumps. Previously, planning permission was required if a heat pump was to be installed within one metre of a neighbour's property—a rule that posed significant challenges for residents of terraced homes. This change is part of the government's Warm Homes Plan, aimed at reducing household energy bills and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
What This Means for Homeowners
The removal of the one-metre boundary rule is particularly beneficial for the 5.7 million households living in terraced homes across England. These properties often lack the space to meet the previous requirement, making heat pump installation difficult or impossible without planning permission.
With the new regulation, homeowners can now install air source heat pumps more freely, provided the units meet certain noise level standards.
Tom Clarke, a gas engineer who has retrained to install heat pumps, highlighted the previous rule as a significant barrier:
“When you look across London, we have loads and loads of terraced houses, and no matter where you site the appliance, it is always going to be within one metre of the boundary.”
The need for planning permission often led to delays of eight to ten weeks, deterring many from making the switch to heat pumps.
Addressing the Challenges Ahead
While this regulatory change is a positive step forward, several challenges remain — especially for those in older homes, rented properties, or leaseholds.
Upfront Costs and Older Homes
The cost of installing a heat pump can still be high. Older homes may need extra work, such as upgraded insulation or new pipework, to get the most out of their new system.
Solutions in Progress
To combat this, the government is exploring financing models that could remove the need for upfront payments. Subscription-based heat pump installation is one possible solution under consideration.
Upcoming Landlord Regulations
From 2030, private landlords will be required to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. This regulation could speed up heat pump adoption in the rental sector, ensuring tenants also benefit from lower energy bills and greener heating systems.
Cooleasy’s Commitment
At Cooleasy, we’re committed to helping UK homeowners make the switch to cleaner, more efficient heating. Our range of energy-efficient heat pumps is designed to suit a wide variety of property types — including smaller and terraced homes.
We offer:
- Friendly expert advice
- Hassle-free installation
- Ongoing support to ensure long-term performance
If you’re considering a heat pump for your home, get in touch — we’re here to help you every step of the way.