How to Save Money on Bills in Your Rental Home This Winter

Energy bills remain one of the biggest worries for tenants across London. With rents rising and the cost of living still high, many renters are looking for practical ways to cut back without sacrificing comfort. This is especially important in older city flats or shared homes, where heating systems may be less efficient and draughts more common.

The good news is that there are plenty of smart, affordable ways to reduce your bills this winter. From draught-proofing tips to understanding your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), this guide will show you how to take control of your energy use.

Related: Renting a property: 10 top tips for tenants

Why Energy Costs Hit Renters Hard

For those living in period conversions, Victorian terraces split into flats, or older purpose-built blocks, bills can be steep. These homes often have single glazing, less insulation, and outdated heating systems. In shared properties, usage can also climb quickly if flatmates aren’t careful.

That’s why every small step matters.

How to Draught-Proof Your Home on a Budget

Draughts are one of the main reasons homes feel cold in winter. They let warm air escape and cold air in, meaning your heating has to work harder, and your bills climb higher. The good news is that draught-proofing doesn’t need to be expensive or permanent, making it ideal for renters.

Here are some tenant-friendly fixes:

• Draught excluders: Place fabric or rubber draught stoppers at the bottom of doors. They’re cheap, effective, and removable.
• Self-adhesive strips: Stick foam or rubber strips around window frames and doors. They stop gaps without damaging the property.
• Letterbox covers: A brush or flap over your letterbox can block sneaky draughts.
• Curtains and blinds: Thermal curtains reduce heat loss through windows. Close them as soon as the sun sets.
• Rugs on bare floors: Wooden or tiled floors in city flats look great but can let cold air through. Rugs keep heat in and add comfort.
• Chimney balloons: If your flat has a disused fireplace, an inflatable chimney balloon can stop heat escaping.

Case in point: A tenant in Islington reduced their heating bill by nearly £20 a month simply by sealing gaps around sash windows and using thick curtains in the lounge. Small fixes really do add up.

Understanding EPCs and What They Mean for Your Bills

Every rental property in the UK is legally required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document grades the property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and estimates energy costs.

Why EPCs matter for tenants:

1. Running costs: A property rated C will generally cost far less to heat than one rated E or below.
2. Legal protection: Landlords cannot usually rent out a property with an EPC lower than E unless they qualify for an exemption.
3. Negotiation tool: If the EPC suggests upgrades, such as loft insulation or a more efficient boiler, you can raise these with your landlord.

To check your home’s EPC, ask your landlord or letting agent, or search the government’s EPC register online.

Tip: If you’re comparing flats, don’t just look at the rent, factor in energy efficiency. Sometimes a slightly higher rent in a more efficient property can save you money overall.

Related: Why does my home’s EPC rating matter?

What to Ask Your Landlord to Look Into

As a tenant, you’re responsible for everyday actions like turning off lights and using heating responsibly. But landlords also have obligations to keep properties safe, habitable, and energy efficient.

Making the Most of Heating Controls in a Shared Flat

Shared flats can be tricky when it comes to energy use. One flatmate may prefer a warmer temperature, while another is more cautious about costs. Without coordination, bills can quickly spiral.

Here’s how to get it under control:

• Agree on a thermostat setting: Most households are comfortable at 18–21°C. Turning it down by just one degree can save up to £100 a year.
• Use timers: Program the heating to come on just before you wake up and switch off when everyone leaves. There’s no need to heat an empty flat.
• Zone heating: If your system allows, heat only the rooms you use most. For example, keep the living room warm in the evening but turn off radiators in unused bedrooms.
• Bleed radiators: Cold patches on radiators mean they’re not working efficiently. A quick bleed releases trapped air and improves performance.
• Smart controls: If your landlord allows it, smart thermostats can help you manage heating remotely and see exactly how much energy you’re using.

Shared home hack: Create a rota for things like turning off lights, unplugging devices, or closing curtains at dusk. Splitting responsibility fairly avoids arguments and keeps bills fair.

Everyday Habits That Save Money

Alongside bigger measures, simple daily choices make a big difference in city flats:

• Switch off appliances: Don’t leave TVs, consoles, or laptops on standby.
• Cook efficiently: Batch cooking saves energy and time.
• Do full laundry loads: Washing fewer, larger loads at 30°C uses less energy.
• Air-dry clothes: Avoid tumble dryers when possible, they’re one of the biggest energy guzzlers.
• Use extractor fans: They reduce damp and mould, which can otherwise make homes feel colder.

Seasonal Maintenance Checks for Tenants

While landlords handle major repairs, tenants can carry out simple checks to keep everything running smoothly:

• Check boiler pressure and reset if needed (instructions are usually on the boiler).
• Look for signs of damp around windows and in bathrooms, and ventilate regularly.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Keep vents clear for proper airflow.

Staying on top of these small tasks helps keep your flat efficient and safe through the colder months.

Planning Ahead for Next Winter

If you’re thinking about moving next year, energy efficiency should be part of your rental search. In London, where older buildings make up much of the rental market, it’s worth asking:

• What’s the EPC rating?
• Are windows single or double glazed?
• How old is the boiler, and when was it last serviced?
• Does the property have central heating or electric heaters (which are often more expensive)?

At Ellis & Co., we understand that tenants want homes that balance affordability with comfort. By checking energy efficiency before you move in, you can avoid surprises and manage your costs better in the long term.

Conclusion

Saving money on bills in your rental home this winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. With a mix of budget-friendly draught-proofing, smart use of EPC information, clear conversations with your landlord, and efficient heating habits in shared flats, you can take control of your energy use.

London renters face unique challenges, but by making small changes and staying proactive, you can enjoy a warmer home and lower bills.

At Ellis & Co., we’re here to help you find rental properties that suit your budget and lifestyle.

Browse our available rentals today and find your next home with Ellis & Co.