Bats, birds and wasps in the loft before ECO4 loft insulation: a UK household checklist (2026)

Guide by ApplyFreeBoiler.uk (Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd), a heating and insulation installer in Bury, Greater Manchester. We are not the government, Ofgem or an energy supplier.

Lofts are popular with wildlife. Before loft insulation goes in under ECO4, it is worth checking whether anything is living up there, because some animals are legally protected and others can make the work unsafe. This checklist is general information from ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, a heating and insulation installer in Bury. It is not legal advice and does not replace guidance from the installer, Natural England, NatureScot, Natural Resources Wales or the Bat Conservation Trust.

1. Look for signs before the survey

Check the loft with a torch in daylight. Droppings, nesting material, chewed insulation, a strong smell or noises at dusk can all point to animals. Tell the surveyor what you have found.

2. Bats and their roosts are protected

All UK bat species and their roosts are protected by law, even when the bats are not there. If you think bats use your loft, do not disturb them or block their access. Tell the installer and contact the Bat Conservation Trust helpline or your country's nature body for advice before any work.

3. Active bird nests are protected too

It is generally an offence to damage or destroy the nest of a wild bird while it is in use. If birds are nesting in the eaves or loft, the work may need to wait until the young have left. Ask the installer how they plan around this.

4. Wasps and bees need a specialist

Do not try to remove an active wasp nest yourself. Many councils or pest controllers can deal with wasps. Bees, especially honey bees, are often best moved by a beekeeper, so ask locally first.

5. Mice and rats

Signs of rodents should be dealt with before new insulation is laid, as they can nest in it and chew cables. A pest controller can advise, and gaps where they get in can be sealed.

6. Keep the installer informed

Wildlife can change timings. Telling the installer early helps them plan safely and avoids a wasted visit. Keep any advice you are given with your ECO4 paperwork.

7. Check funding and local figures

See ECO measures by council on ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, built from DESNZ Household Energy Efficiency statistics, to see how many ECO measures have been installed in your local authority area. Use the ApplyFreeBoiler.uk eligibility check to see whether an ECO4 heating or insulation pathway may be available for your home in England, Scotland or Wales. ECO4 is due to close on 31 December 2026.