Major changes, such as resizing radiators or creating space for a hot water cylinder, are best done when disruption is already planned, for example, during renovations. Regulation could accelerate this shift by requiring low-temperature suitable radiators and pipework at boiler replacement or during major renovations, but such an approach risks adding unnecessary cost, especially if high-temperature heat pumps become the norm.

A more practical route is to help homeowners understand what ‘heat pump readiness’ means for their home, encouraging them to take small, timely steps when it suits them. Embedding clear, trusted guidance into everyday moments such as renovation, homebuying or boiler servicing could help many start the journey earlier and avoid locking in features that make future heat pump installations harder or more expensive to run. Any such adjustments done in advance need to offer a clear benefit to homeowners and eliminate – rather than add – hassle.

At the same time, streamlining processes (such as Distribution Network Operator approval, electricity supply upgrades and the Energy Performance Certificate requirement for BUS funding) is crucial to making homes administratively ready for a heat pump.

As heat pump uptake accelerates, ensuring both households and the grid are ready will determine whether low-carbon heating can be the default, particularly at moments of boiler breakdown. Making homes more ready for heat pumps is unlikely to be a silver bullet – cost and awareness will still be major barriers – but we are confident that a combination of system-level improvements and targeted guidance for homeowners can make heat pumps meaningfully easier to install for many households.