Faster, stronger action needed on cold homes

Michael, Swansea
14 January 2011

The main problems I experience in my rented ground floor flat are draughts from the windows and doors. The front bay window is wooden framed with a single thin pane of glass in each section.

I find it impossible to keep warm - and in addition I suffer with Osteoarthritis.

Overall, the property is like a wind tunnel when the wind is blowing and is absolutely freezing in winter.

We've just come through one of the worst cold snaps in recent history - I was ill for most of it.  I put that down to the poor quality insulation of the windows and doors in my rented home.

Natasha Khan, Bat for Lashes

"We suffered the worst mould you could imagine in my student house. Over our 2 year let, it got to the point where you'd have to dodge at least 20 slugs living off moisture in the carpet to reach the bathroom - then inhale black mould spores if the steam from the shower got too much. The cold, draughts and dampness were pretty extreme!"

Stop tenants feeling the chill

Stop tenants feeling the chill

Help end dangerously cold homes

Stop tenants feeling the chill

Need some help?

For free advice on paying heating bills and how to save energy, visit Home Heat Helpline  or call 0800 336699.

Find out your legal rights as a tenant at Shelter or call 0808 800 4444.