Faster, stronger action needed on cold homes

Daniel, London
17 January 2011

I've lived in various rented properties over the last few years of my life. Without exception they have been poorly insulated, poorly draught-sealed - and as a result, either cold or expensive to keep warm and unnecessarily energy hungry. 

The landlords have also generally been uninterested in doing anything about this, as it is accepted as the norm for rented accommodation.

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.