Faster, stronger action needed on cold homes

Dougal, Nottingham
17 January 2011

I've recently left a rented property which was horribly cold through the winter. Even with the heating on it was difficult to keep warm.

The problem was compounded by the fact I lived with two overseas students who had little money to spare for excessive heating bills.

If the property had been properly insulated and fitted with double glazing, life would have been far happier, less costly and more environmentally friendly.

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.