Landlords can do their bit to cut energy bills

Big Energy Saving Week, which starts today, aims to help people save on their fuel bills through informed advice about energy saving measures and switching suppliers.

According to Citizens Advice, 43 per cent of people worry that they can’t afford their next fuel bill and one in two say they foresee their energy bills putting a strain on their finances.

The NLA urges landlords to work with their tenants to ensure they are using the most competitive energy tariff for their consumption; switching suppliers could save tenants hundreds of pounds per year.

Further research from Citizens Advice claims that one in three people don’t know that help is available to insulate their home, rising to 46 per cent in London.

By taking advantage of the government’s Green Deal, landlords can improve their properties’ energy efficiency and help tenants reduce their energy bills.

NLA chairman David Salusbury says: “In light of the recent energy company price rises, many tenants are understandably concerned about their utility expenses.

“Landlords have a duty to ensure their properties are as energy efficient as possible, helping to minimise tenants’ energy consumption. With the private-rented sector playing such as key role in the provision of housing in the UK, this is a must.”

In support of Big Energy Saving Week, the NLA’s energy efficiency advice and guidance will be free to access during October.

Landlords can find out more about their energy obligations by visiting http://www.landlords.org.uk/library