Faster, stronger action on cold rented homes is needed in Energy Bill

Mathew, Richmond
24 January 2011

Let's face it - London's rented housing stock is rubbish!

If you're a tenant you really need a super immune system that can survive killer mould disease every winter. Or you need your own personal dehumidifier. Otherwise, you're going to live in an impossibly damp situation.

I don't know why it is most places you rent are simply not insulated. It seems nothing has really improved since Orwell wrote 'Down and Out in Paris and London'.

What also happens is that, if there is mould, the landlord blames you.

Once my landlord even insisted I find somewhere else to live, so they could repaint the place and rent it out to the next unsuspecting victim.

 

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.