Private renters hit by higher utility bills

People renting privately in Sunderland are paying significantly more for electricity and heating than social tenants because their homes are less energy efficient, according to new figures

Campaign group Generation Rent says lax regulations mean private landlords can avoid making energy efficiency improvements.

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) say the estimated median energy cost of lighting, heating and hot water for people privately renting flats in the city was £599 a year - compared to £496 for social rented flats.

For privately rented houses, the figure is £838, compared £737 for social tenants.

Energy Performance Certificates provide information on the energy efficiency of a building, and are required when a property is built, sold or let.

The figures only cover homes those with a known E PC rating – and the ONS estimates that 62% had a certificate at the end of March last year.

Dan Wilson Craw, director of Generation Rent, said: “Private renters have had to put up with draughty homes for far too long, because there hasn’t been much of a carrot or a stick for landlords to insulate their properties.

“Even with recent Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, landlords get an exemption if it would cost too much to make the necessary improvements.”

He said the recently announced Green Homes Grant, whereby homeowners – including landlords – can get financial help to make energy efficiency upgrades, was an opportunity to make thousands of rented homes more comfortable. But the Government hasn’t told us how it will make sure the money goes to people who need it most.”