Anna, York17 January 2011
I have lived in rented accommodation for the past 10 years. It has not been uncommon for me to have to wear hats and scarves indoors, as even with full heating on, the heat quickly disappears in a house that is not properly insulated.
One thing that has bothered me in rented homes in the UK is the extremely poor level of insulation required of houses.
If I could afford to buy my own house, then I would be able to adapt my house to make it more energy efficient. But as a tenant, this is not possible. Most of the actions available to improve energy efficiency in homes are not possible for those renting their home.
The incentive for landlords must come from government regulation, as there is no incentive for them to properly insulate homes without this. It is the tenant who foots the heating bill and has to live in an improperly insulated, cold home.
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.
