Renters paying over the odds to stay warm in winter

Many renters are facing higher energy bills this winter because they live in leaky, cold and damp housing.

According to Citizens Advice, more than half of renters (57%) live in homes with an energy efficiency rating below C.

As a result, many are spending “disproportionately” on gas and electricity to achieve “basic levels of comfort” in the winter months.

Renters rationing energy use to make ends meet

Last winter, almost one in three (32%) struggled to heat their home to a comfortable temperature.

Citizens Advice says this led to many people taking drastic steps to make ends meet, such as wearing gloves inside, only heating one room and skipping hot meals.

Meanwhile, more than two-fifths (41%) rationed gas and electricity to afford their energy bills.

Citizens Advice believes the situation could be improved significantly if rental homes were more energy efficient.

Estimates suggest that if people in homes with an E rating could have saved £317 on their energy bills last winter if their homes had been upgraded to C.

Tenants ‘reluctant to address issues with landlords’

Citizens Advice has warned that despite these issues, many people are uncomfortable going to their landlords for help.

For example, nearly a third (29%) said they avoid asking for repairs or renovations because they’re worried it could create tension with their landlord, or lead to them putting up their rent.

The charity is now calling for the government to deliver planned new protections for renters as soon as possible and make sure these rights are strongly enforced.

“It’s unacceptable that so many tenants are afraid to ask for the very basics - like fixing draughty doors, or replacing poor quality single-glazed windows,” said chief executive Dame Clare Moriarty.

“By 2030, the government must ensure no renter lives in a home that is excessively difficult and expensive to heat. 

“And renters must urgently be given the security they deserve so they can ask landlords to fix substandard housing without fear of retaliation.”

What you can do

If you live in a leaky, draughty home that costs lots of money to heat, then are steps you can take.

Know your rights

Landlords are legally responsible for making sure the homes they rent out meet minimum health and safety standards.

So tell your landlord about any defects or problems in the property, and if they don’t act, you can make a formal complaint or take your case to the housing ombudsman.

Don’t ignore warning signs

Look out for signs of poor housing so you can act on issues as quickly as you can, such as:

• persistent damp or mould
• broken windows, doors or roofing

Prioritise energy efficiency when house-hunting

If you’re currently looking to move, look at the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before making any decisions.

Keep a record of any problems

If you’re reporting issues like damp or broken heating, then:

• take dated photos or videos so you have evidence
• keep copies of any correspondence with your landlord or letting agent

These could be vital if you need to escalate the issue later on.