HIES
Renewables and energy · Home energy consumer protection scheme
HIES is a consumer protection scheme for home energy installations. It combines installer membership with protection arrangements for eligible registered work; it is not the same thing as MCS technical certification.
Checked Official sources below.
What it covers and whether it is required
Membership is voluntary unless a particular contract or funding route requires an accepted consumer code. Do not describe HIES membership as a legal requirement for every renewable installer or every MCS-certified business.
Joining requirements and costs
Installers apply to HIES and undergo its membership checks. Confirm the current business, financial, insurance and compliance evidence required for the installation types offered. Membership approval and registering an individual installation are separate steps.
Check the current fees with HIES before applying. Ask whether the quotation includes application, assessment, renewal and any per-job charges. Use published fees or ask for a written quotation.
What it means for homeowners
Use the official installer search and check that your installation will be registered. HIES describes advance payment protection and insurance-backed guarantees for registered installations. Ask for the actual policy, start date, exclusions and dispute route before relying on that protection.
How to check a claim
Official member, card or certificate check: HIES.
Match the record to the named person or contracting business. Check the current scope, not just a logo on a van or an old certificate. If the public record does not show the detail you need, ask the body to confirm it before appointing the business.
Where the scheme applies
UK home energy market. Check the installer serves your area and that the particular technology and contract are eligible for the offered protection.
Common questions
Is a HIES logo enough to prove my installation is insured?
No. Check current membership, whether your installation is registered and the protection documents issued for that contract.
How do I check HIES status?
Use the official verification service linked in this guide. Match the person or legal business name, current status and relevant work category. For a guarantee, check the document issued for your contract as well.
Official sources
Sources checked November 2026. Scheme rules can change; confirm current requirements before applying or signing a contract.