If you’re renting a council house and noticing that it feels colder than it should, you’re not alone.
Many council tenants experience this issue, and it can be frustrating when you’re trying to stay comfortable in your own home.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why is my house so cold?” there could be a number of factors at play.
In this blog, we’ll explore some common causes and what you can do about it.
The potential causes of a cold home
Several factors can contribute to a cold home, particularly in council houses, which may not have been updated with the latest energy-efficient solutions.
Here are some potential causes of coldness that could be affecting your rented property.
1. Poor insulation
One of the most common reasons why council houses feel cold is poor insulation. Many older council homes lack adequate insulation in the walls, lofts, and floors, which allows heat to escape.
Without proper insulation, it’s much harder to keep your home warm, and you may find yourself relying more on your heating system to compensate. However, this can lead to higher energy bills and still leave you with a chilly home.
2. Old windows
Another significant issue in older council homes is the presence of single-glazed windows. These older windows allow heat to escape easily and can also let cold air in, making your house feel much colder.
If you have defective windows that are old and draughty, they could be a major culprit in why your home feels so cold.
3. Heating problems
If your heating system isn’t working properly, it can also contribute to a cold living environment.
Many council homes may have outdated heating systems or boilers that don’t run as efficiently as newer models. This can result in uneven heating throughout your home or insufficient warmth, especially in certain rooms.
If you’re experiencing heating problems, it’s essential to report them to your local council housing office so they can address the issue.
What temperature is too cold for a house in the UK?
In the UK, the recommended indoor temperature for a comfortable living space is around 18-21°C (64-70°F). Anything below 18°C can start to feel uncomfortably cold, and if your home is consistently colder than this, it can affect your health and well-being.
Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to issues like respiratory problems, joint pain, and even hypothermia in extreme cases.
If you’re finding it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature in your rented council house, it’s important to take action.
What can you do?
If your council home feels cold, there are several steps you can take.
Report issues to your local council
If you suspect poor insulation, heating problems, or old windows are to blame, the first step is to inform your landlord (the local council). They may be able to arrange for repairs or upgrades to improve the warmth in your home.
Layer up and use heating wisely
Wearing warm clothing and using energy-efficient heaters strategically can help make your home feel more comfortable while you wait for repairs or upgrades.
Make your cold home comfortable again
A cold council house can be caused by several factors, from poor insulation and old windows to heating issues.
If you’re finding your home consistently uncomfortable, it’s essential to report the problem and seek solutions.
A warm, well-insulated home is not just a luxury—it’s essential for your comfort and health.
Contact Liberay Legal
If your Council or Housing association fails to take action, get in touch with our team. We may be able to help you get your repairs sorted so you can live in a safe, warm home.
You could also get some compensation for all the inconvenience!
