MAKING YOUR HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT

You might be able to save money by making your home more energy efficient – for example by:

• using your central heating effectively
• keeping your home warm for longer
• making changes so you use less electricity and gas

Use timers and thermostats if you have them - this way you’ll only heat your house when necessary. On average, you’ll save around £70 each year.

You can find out more about how to set up your central heating system here: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/thermostats-and-heating-controls/

If your central heating is broken, ask your landlord to fix it – they are responsible for repairs to the supply of heating and hot water in your home.

Try to avoid using electric heaters are these are very expensive to run.

MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR HOME

You must get your landlord’s permission before you make improvements to your home.

If your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) says your home is rated in band F or G, your landlord normally has to make some improvements. You can find out your home’s EPC rating here:https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate

Write to your landlord and ask them to make improvements to your home. Tell them the EPC rating should be at least band E. Explain that you think it’s their responsibility.

If your landlord won’t make the improvements you can complain to the council -

Durham County Council Housing Solutions

housingsolutions@durham.gov.uk

Your landlord won’t have to make improvements if your home is exempt from the ‘minimum standard’ of energy efficiency. You can find out more here: https://prsregister.beis.gov.uk/NdsBeisUi/register-search-exemptions

OTHER MEASURES

• You might be surprised at how much energy can be lost by keeping blinds or curtains open at night. Similarly, if you open your blinds in the daytime, the sunlight can provide natural warmth.
• You may also want to invest in draught excluders to keep heat inside your home.
• Closing doors within the home is another useful way to conserve heat.
• You can find out more about how to make your home more energy efficient here: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/energy-at-home/