Renters admit they did not take into consideration payments earlier than transferring in – and now the associated fee is big

A survey of 2,000 tenants revealed that 54% hurried through the process to move in as quickly as possible, prioritising location over heating and energy costs.

However, 46% now feel they have no control over their bills, forcing 34% to cut back elsewhere to afford them and leaving 17% feeling helpless at home.

Before getting their keys, 51% received little or no information from their landlord about the likely cost of these essentials. Even more concerning, 21% are contractually barred from changing their energy supplier, with nearly half not realising this when they signed their lease.

Shockingly, 24% have even contemplated relocating due to spiralling costs while another 36% have decided to take matters into their own hands by carrying out tasks to make their property more energy efficient – despite potentially violating their tenancy agreements.

Paul White, commercial director at DIY store B&Q, which commissioned the research, commented: “The research shows tenants are taking matters into their own hands, trying to improve energy efficiency in their homes – even when rental agreements typically limit what they’re allowed to change.”

Among those who have made energy improvements around their rented home, 42% have bled the radiators, and 39% have installed draught seals around doors and windows. A quarter (25%) have insulated pipes and 23% went as far as insulating the loft.



The research suggests there is more renters could be doing to make their homes more energy efficient
(Image: Getty Images)

“Of those looking to make small but effective changes, there are a few low-cost solutions that are unlikely to breach rental agreements,” White adds.

“Adding radiator reflectors to direct heat back into the room and using heavy curtains can help keep in warmth. These minor adjustments can make a real difference and provide renters some control over their energy costs, even if their property isn’t perfectly insulated.”

The research also found that there’s more renters could be doing to protect themselves before moving into new homes. In fact, 69% aren’t likely to check the age of appliances, and 63% are unlikely to check the EPC rating of the next potential property.

White continued by saying: “Renters and homeowners alike can feel that they are unable to take control of their household bills. We have plenty of energy efficiency solutions, from thermostatic controls to draught excluders, which can help make it easier for customers to control and reduce their energy use, and to keep their bills from becoming overwhelming.”

“As a first port of call, I’d recommend visiting our Energy Savings hub at diy.com for free tips and advice.”

“Here, people can also take advantage of our free Energy Saving Service, offering personalised advice on the steps they can take to improve the energy efficiency of their home.”

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